Marcus Rashford was on target as Barcelona kicked off their Copa del Rey 2025-26 campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory against third-tier side Guadalajara.

The La Liga leaders, who last season secured their 32nd Copa del Rey title by defeating rivals Real Madrid in a thrilling final, faced a stern test from the lower-league visitors.

Hard-Fought First Half

Barcelona, managed by Hansi Flick, made eight changes from the side that beat Osasuna 2-0 on Saturday, looking to rotate the squad while maintaining a four-point lead over Real Madrid in the league.

Despite dominating possession with over 80% in the first half, the visitors struggled to break down Guadalajara’s defence. Early drama came inside six minutes when defender Eric Garcia attempted a bold strike from near the halfway line, forcing Guadalajara goalkeeper Dani Vicente into a spectacular save to prevent an own goal.

Both Rashford and Lamine Yamal found it difficult to make an impact during the opening 45 minutes, leaving Barcelona to wait for a breakthrough.

Christensen and Rashford Seal the Win

The deadlock was finally broken in the 76th minute when defender Andreas Christensen headed home Frenkie de Jong’s cross to put Barcelona ahead.

England international Rashford, on loan from Manchester United and hoping to make the move permanent, wrapped up the win in the 90th minute. He received a clever pass from Yamal, rounded Vicente, and calmly slotted the ball home to make it 2-0.

Last 16 Update

Other teams joining Barcelona in the Copa del Rey last 16 include Deportivo La Coruña, Elche, Real Sociedad, and Valencia, all securing victories on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Real Madrid travel to Talavera on Wednesday.

Barcelona’s next challenge comes in La Liga, with a trip to Villarreal on Sunday (15:15 GMT).