In a thrilling Copa del Rey clash on Thursday night, FC Barcelona, led by Xavi Hernandez, fought back against Unionists de Salamanca to secure a spot in the quarterfinals with a 3-1 victory.
Unionistas, the third-tier underdogs, took an early lead with a stunning goal from Alvaro Gomez, leaving Xavi visibly frustrated at his team’s weak defending. However, Barcelona gradually took control, and just before halftime, Ferran Torres leveled the score with a remarkable solo effort, sprinting forward from his half.
Xavi’s tactical changes at halftime, bringing on Lewandowski, Pedri, and Ilkay Gundogan, proved instrumental. In the 68th minute, Jules Kounde put Barcelona ahead with a powerful 25-meter shot as the defense backed off. Alejandre Balde won in the 73rd minute with a brilliant individual goal, showcasing skill and determination.
Barcelona’s comeback adds to the excitement of the Copa del Rey quarterfinals, joining the ranks of Athletic Bilbao, Celta, Mallorca, Sevilla, Real Sociedad, and Girona, who had already booked their places earlier in the week. The team’s performance and Xavi’s strategic moves now set the stage for an anticipated quarterfinal showdown.