Real Madrid booked their place in the Copa del Rey final with a convincing 4-1 aggregate win over Barcelona in their semifinal clash.
After losing the first leg 1-0 at home, Madrid produced a brilliant performance at the Nou Camp to secure their place in the final, where they will face Osasuna on May 6.
Karim Benzema was the hero for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, scoring a second-half hat-trick to stun the hosts.
Vinicius Jr. had equalized for Madrid just before half-time, and Benzema took over after the break, scoring two goals in the space of five minutes to put the visitors in control.
Benzema completed his hat-trick with a clinical finish in the 80th minute, capping off a fine performance from the French striker.
Barcelona had started the game brightly and created a number of chances, but they were left to rue their missed opportunities as Madrid ran riot in the second half.
Madrid’s victory was all the more impressive given that they were without several key players, including Sergio Ramos, Eden Hazard, and Dani Carvajal.
For Barcelona, it was a disappointing night as they failed to reach the Copa del Rey final for the first time since 2016.
Madrid, meanwhile, will be looking to add to their record 19 Copa del Rey titles when they face Osasuna in next month’s final.
– Somalistandard and BBC
