Barcelona stormed into the Copa del Rey quarter-finals with a commanding 5-1 win over Real Betis at the Olympic Stadium on Wednesday, thanks to a standout performance from 17-year-old Lamine Yamal.
Yamal scored and played a key role in two other goals as Hansi Flick’s side delivered a dominant display, building on their Spanish Super Cup triumph over Real Madrid last weekend.
Gavi opened the scoring in just the second minute, capping off a fluid team move initiated by Dani Olmo, who started as a false nine in place of the rested Robert Lewandowski.
Olmo, controversially granted a temporary playing license last week, also came close to scoring himself, hitting the post during a busy opening spell.
Jules Kounde doubled the lead later in the first half, finishing a clever pass from Yamal on the right side of the box. While Kounde found the net again from a similar position, the goal was ruled out for offside.
Despite Betis testing Barcelona’s defense, including a sharp save from Inaki Pena to deny Vitor Roque—on loan from Barcelona—the Catalans remained in control.
Yamal’s clinical finish early in the second half was disallowed for offside, but he made amends shortly after with a brilliant solo run from deep, setting up Raphinha for Barcelona’s third. Substitute Ferran Torres added the fourth, capitalizing on another precise assist from Olmo.
Yamal finally got his goal in the closing stages, cutting in from the right and firing past the goalkeeper at the near post. Betis managed a consolation goal late on when Roque converted a penalty after Kounde fouled Jesus Rodriguez in the box.
The victory showcased Barcelona’s resurgent form as they continue their push for silverware this season. Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao will look to join them in the quarter-finals, with their respective matches against Celta Vigo and Osasuna on Thursday.
