The 2025 Copa del Rey final between Barcelona and Real Madrid will be remembered not just for Jules Koundé’s dramatic extra-time winner, but for the fiery aftermath that saw Antonio Rüdiger potentially facing a lengthy suspension. Crickex brings you an in-depth tactical breakdown and behavioral analysis of this explosive El Clásico encounter.
The Incident That Shook Spanish Football
In the dying moments of a pulsating final at Seville’s La Cartuja stadium, tempers flared on the Real Madrid bench after Barcelona’s 3-2 victory. German defender Antonio Rüdiger, who had been substituted earlier in the match, allegedly threw ice toward referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoechea during the post-match fracas.
Match reports indicate Rüdiger displayed “an aggressive attitude” while holding a small bag of ice, requiring intervention from teammates and staff. The incident occurred amidst multiple red cards being shown to Real Madrid personnel, including Jude Bellingham for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Tactical Breakdown of the Final
The match itself was a tactical masterpiece from both managers:
First Half Dominance:
- Barcelona’s high press disrupted Real’s buildup
- Pedri’s 28th-minute curler showcased Barça’s attacking fluidity
- Madrid struggled to cope with Gavi’s midfield intensity
Second Half Resurgence:
- Ancelotti’s halftime adjustments changed the game
- Kylian Mbappé’s introduction (70′) provided immediate impact
- Tchouaméni’s header (77′) demonstrated Madrid’s set-piece superiority
Extra Time Drama:
- Ferran Torres’ 84th-minute equalizer forced additional time
- Koundé’s winner came from exploiting Madrid’s fatigued defense
- Barcelona’s tactical substitutions proved decisive
The Fallout and Potential Consequences
Rüdiger quickly issued a public apology via social media: “There’s definitely no excuse for my behaviour last night. I’m very sorry for that… Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed.”
Barcelona’s victory celebrations were overshadowed by the post-match incidents
Spanish football expert Javier Martínez told Crickex: “This incident could carry a 4-12 match ban under RFEF regulations. The severity will depend on whether the ice made contact with the referee and Rüdiger’s previous disciplinary record.”
Ancelotti’s Impending Departure
Adding to Real Madrid’s woes, Carlo Ancelotti appears set to leave the club for the Brazil national team job. Sources indicate negotiations are at an advanced stage, with the Italian potentially departing as soon as next week.
Brazilian football journalist Renata Mendonça explains: “The CBF has pursued Ancelotti since 2022. His experience managing superstar egos at club level makes him the ideal candidate to rebuild Brazil after their World Cup disappointments.”
What This Means for Both Clubs
For Barcelona:
- Confidence boost ahead of Champions League semifinals
- Proof that Xavi’s project is bearing fruit
- Young players like Gavi and Pedri stepping up in big moments
For Real Madrid:
- Need for immediate damage control
- Potential summer rebuild under new management
- Psychological impact of losing another Clásico final
Conclusion: A Night of High Drama in Spanish Football
The 2025 Copa del Rey final had everything – tactical brilliance, last-minute drama, and controversial incidents that will be debated for weeks. While Barcelona celebrates their hard-fought victory, Real Madrid faces serious questions about discipline and their immediate future. Crickex will continue to monitor the disciplinary proceedings against Rüdiger and Ancelotti’s expected move to Brazil – stay tuned for updates on these developing stories.
What did you think of the match and its aftermath? Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to follow Crickex for more in-depth football analysis.
