Lamine Yamal Fires Barcelona Into Semi-Finals

The hero was Lamine Yamal when Barcelona ensured their place in semi-finals of the Copa del Rey. Catalan giants were confronted with a difficult task against Albacete, which is a side in Segunda Division. Still, having the difference in leagues, the champions of the fight were the so-called giant killers.

It broke through at last in the 39th minute. Frenkie de Jong picked up the young winger after a high-intensity press by Marcus Rhasford. Lamine Yamal clinical finish in the far corner provided crucial lead to the holders. It was pure class with the eighteen year old.

It did not take long after the break before Barcelona doubled the lead. Ronald Araujo got to the highest point to reach a very dangerous corner of Rashford. England international who is on loan with Manchester United was a threat at all times. His assist was an important step towards a magnificent first season in Spain. Rashford has now become a member of an exclusive club of Englishmen to score in twenties in terms of both goals and assists.

Albacete was not to be beaten to submission. In the last round, they had already shocked Real Madrid. Javi Moreno got a strong header in the 87th minute to create a frenzied finish. The stadium became tensed as underdogs struggled to get the last tie.

Gerard Martin rescued the day when he made a dramatic stoppage-time goal-line clearance. Torres Ferran was also offside and his goal was disallowed. The men led by Hansi Flick demonstrated much character to withstand the storm.

It is a win that keeps Barcelona alive in its hope of retaining the trophy. They dominated the pace throughout the majority of the game and were reminded of the vagaries of the cup. The combination of the young and the older experience will be satisfactory to Flick. The next match of the Blaugrana is in the semi-finals.