The match at Pedro Escartin stadium on 16/12 started 30 minutes late due to congestion at the stadium entrances and some issues with the auxiliary stands.

Facing a third-division club, coach Hansi Flick rotated his squad, resting key players like Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, and Raphinha. Despite this, Barca remained strong favorites with Frenkie De Jong, Lamine Yamal, and Marcus Rashford in the lineup.

Barca players celebrate Andreas Christensen's opening goal in their 2-0 victory over Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey round of 32 on 16/12. *Photo: FC Barcelona*

Barca dominated the match with 83% possession, taking 22 shots with 11 on target, compared to Guadalajara's 10 shots and four on target. However, the visitors were wasteful and needed a stroke of luck to break the deadlock. In the 76th minute, De Jong delivered a cross that Andreas Christensen headed, and the ball deflected off a Guadalajara player into the net.

In the final minute of regular play, Lamine Yamal threaded a pass for Rashford to enter the penalty area. The English forward feigned a shot, rounded the Guadalajara goalkeeper, and then slotted the ball into an empty net with his left foot, sealing the 2-0 victory.

Rashford ended his 10-match goalless streak across all competitions, becoming the only Barca player to score in all three tournaments the club is competing in this season. Previously, the 28-year-old forward had scored two goals in La Liga and four in the Champions League. He has also been involved in 11 goals (scoring or assisting) in 24 appearances across all competitions.

Marcus Rashford shakes hands with the Guadalajara goalkeeper after the match. *Photo: AFP*

After the match, coach Hansi Flick expressed his satisfaction, emphasizing that the players' attitude and fighting spirit were crucial. The German tactician highlighted that facing lower-division teams in the Copa del Rey is always challenging, as opponents consistently display hunger and determination.

“Matches like these are not easy to score in, but I am pleased with the fighting spirit on the pitch. The most important thing is the spirit and attitude the players maintained throughout the match. That was the key to our victory,” Flick said.

On 21/12, Barca will travel to face Villarreal in La Liga's 17th round before a two-week winter break.

Hong Duy