2017 Copa del Rey Final

Lore & Background

Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 30th minute. Alavés equalized three minutes later through Théo Hernandez's long-range free-kick. Neymar put Barcelona back in front in the final minute of the first half, and Paco Alcácer made it 3–1 in added time. There was no further scoring in the second half. Messi was named man of the match.

In Their Own Story

The Seville night was thick with humidity and anticipation as the final whistle of regular time approached. The stadium roared, a mix of anxiety and hope, knowing that for Atletico, history is often written in extra time. As Griezmann received the ball near the halfway line, the world seemed to slow; he drove forward, leaving defenders in his wake, and unleashed a shot that silenced the opposition and ignited the red-and-white faithful into a frenzy.

Reader's Guide

Barcelona took the lead when Messi shot left-footed from just outside the penalty area. Alavés equalized with a free-kick from Hernandez. Neymar scored from close range after a low cross from André Gomes. Alcácer scored from six yards after Messi's run and flick. The second half had no goals.

Did You Know?

• Neymar equalised Ferenc Puskás's record for scoring in three consecutive Copa del Rey finals.
• Lionel Messi became only the second player in Copa del Rey history to score in four different finals.
• Barcelona were seeking a third consecutive Copa del Rey title, a feat previously accomplished by themselves in 1953 and by Athletic Bilbao in 1916 and 1945.