Jeddah: The holders and record 15-time champions will face either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid, who meet Thursday, in Sunday's final, according to beInsports. Hansi Flick began with teenage star Lamine Yamal on the bench but his team was still able to ease to a comfortable victory at the King Abdullah Sports City stadium in Jeddah.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the La Liga leaders have now won nine matches in a row across all competitions and Athletic, enduring a difficult season, were ripped to shreds. Last season, Barca went on to win La Liga and the Copa del Rey after Flick's side won the Spanish Super Cup for the first trophy of the German's reign and the coach had said he wanted to use the competition as a springboard for more success again.
Raphinha, speaking to Movistar, emphasized the team's performance, stating, "It's us who make games easy or hard -- when we're playing well, doing things right, defending well, attacking well, the game is easier." The forward has been in form since returning from a hamstring injury that kept him out for around two months. He added, "I am always looking to be at my best level, and I will never say I'm at my best."
The game saw Ferran Torres open the scoring after 22 minutes, capitalizing on a fortunate rebound from Fermin Lopez's shot. Barca's second goal was crafted beautifully, with Raphinha assisting Lopez to blast into the top corner, marking the first of three goals in eight minutes. Swedish winger Roony Bardghji netted the third following a mishap by Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon.
The performance raised questions for Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, considering Simon's position as Spain's number one and the impressive performance of Barca's Joan Garcia. Although de la Fuente was absent due to flu, the match offered insights ahead of the World Cup.
Raphinha continued his impressive display by scoring Barcelona's fourth goal after 38 minutes. Despite Athletic's Oihan Sancet hitting the post, the Basque side struggled throughout the match. Raphinha added his second goal after the break, sealing a decisive victory for Barca. Athletic captain Inaki Williams expressed regret, stating, "We have to say sorry to the fans who came here, we were not up to the level today."