Barcelona navigated a classic Copa del Rey banana skin on Tuesday night, seeing off a spirited CD Guadalajara 2-0 in a tense away tie that was far more gruelling than the scoreline suggests.
Playing in the intimate, hostile atmosphere of the Estadio Pedro Escartín, the Blaugrana laboured for over an hour against the disciplined third tier side before finally breaking the deadlock. The unlikely hero was Andreas Christensen, who powered home a header from a Frenkie de Jong cross in the 70th minute. Substitute Marcus Rashford sealed the deal late on, firing in from a tight angle to ensure safe passage.
1. A Proper Cup Fight, Exactly as Expected
Anyone who thought Barcelona would waltz through this one doesn’t know the Copa del Rey. Guadalajara, struggling in the Primera Federación, threw everything at their historic night. They parked a deep, compact low block, suffocated the box, and relied on frantic counter attacks. Barça dominated the ball but spent most of the first half taking pot shots that deflected off a mass of bodies. The opener took 70 minutes of patience and persistence a testament to the hosts’ organisation and sheer grit.
2. Christensen Stakes His Claim with Flawless Display
The winning goal came from an unexpected source, but it capped a performance that screamed for more attention. Andreas Christensen, used sparingly by Hansi Flick this season, was immaculate. He defended with calm authority, distributed beautifully, and even held a high line to perfection. His eight defensive actions included a crucial last man tackle. This wasn’t just a goal; it was a full blooded audition. On this evidence, dropping him looks increasingly difficult.
3. Flick’s Rotation Masterstroke (Almost)
With bigger fish to fry, Flick’s team selection walked a tightrope between rest and risk. He largely got it right. Marc André ter Stegen got his first start of the season in goal. A completely reshuffled defence featuring Marc Casadó, Eric García, Christensen, and Jofre Torrents gave starters like Cubarsí, Kounde, and Balde the night off. In midfield, Marc Bernal continued his comeback with 45 minutes, while De Jong built fitness. Up top, Rashford, Lamine Yamal, and Roony Bardghji started, sparing Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres.
The only blemish? Yamal playing the full 90 minutes, a workload question that will raise eyebrows. But with a Christmas break and a UCL suspension coming up, the teenager will get his rest. Overall, it was a night that balanced result with rotation the hallmark of a deep squad navigating a long season.
Barça are in the hat for the next round, having cleared a hurdle that has tripped many giants before. Job done, if not in style.
