Barcelona faced a devastating exit from the Copa del Rey, succumbing to a 4-2 defeat in extra time against Athletic Bilbao in the quarterfinals. This marks their second disappointing cup defeat within two weeks. Meanwhile, La Liga leader Girona also suffered a setback, losing 3-2 to Mallorca on the same day.
Barcelona's Extra Time Misery
In a dramatic encounter, Barcelona found themselves deadlocked at 2-2 with Athletic Bilbao after 90 minutes. However, goals from the sibling duo of Iñaki and Nico Williams in extra time secured Bilbao's triumph. Iñaki Williams, who returned from the Africa Cup of Nations just in time for the fixture, played a pivotal role in this unexpected victory.
Iñaki Williams' Remarkable Turnaround
Iñaki Williams' story took a remarkable turn as he rejoined Bilbao after representing Ghana in the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite being part of the squad eliminated on Monday, he flew back to Spain on Wednesday morning and played a crucial role in knocking Barcelona out of the Copa del Rey.
Barcelona's Recent Struggles
This defeat adds to Barcelona's recent woes, having lost the Spanish Super Cup to archrival Real Madrid earlier in the month. Currently, they find themselves eight points behind the La Liga leaders, though a UEFA Champions League matchup against Napoli awaits them in February.
The Game's Rollercoaster Start
Barcelona's quest for victory got off to a rocky start, conceding a goal just 35 seconds into the game. Gorka Guruzeta capitalized on defensive lapses to give Athletic Bilbao an early lead. However, a stroke of luck saw Robert Lewandowski leveling the score in the 25th minute, deflecting a clearance into the net.
Lamine Yamal's Record-Breaking Goal
The visitors showcased their prowess with a brilliant second goal. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, at 16, set a Copa del Rey record as the youngest scorer this century. Yamal's left-footed strike from the edge of the penalty area left an indelible mark on the competition.
Extra Time Drama
As the game entered extra time, Athletic Bilbao seized the initiative. Iñaki Williams struck the post, but luck favored him as the ball rebounded for an easy tap-in just before the end of the first half of extra time. His brother Nico sealed the deal, scoring with finesse and securing Bilbao's victory.
Girona's Setback in La Liga
In a surprising turn of events, Girona, the underdog of this La Liga season, faced a setback against Mallorca. Despite a remarkable season, Girona lost 3-2, putting an end to their hopes of a league and cup double.
Mallorca's Stunning Lead
Mallorca, positioned 14 places below Girona in La Liga, stunned the league leaders with a commanding 3-0 lead in the first half. Despite a late rally by Girona, including a penalty converted by Cristhian Stuani, Mallorca held firm after captain Antonio RaÃllo was sent off.
Sávio's Late Effort in Vain
Brazilian forward Sávio's injury-time goal narrowed the margin to 3-2, but it proved insufficient for Girona to salvage the match. With their focus now solely on the league, Girona aims to bounce back from this setback.
In summary, Barcelona's Copa del Rey exit and Girona's La Liga defeat have added unexpected twists to the Spanish football narrative, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapters in these unfolding sagas.
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