Thu Jan 16 07:17:43 UTC 2025: ## Barcelona Cruise into Copa del Rey Quarter-Finals with 5-1 Thrashing of Betis

**Barcelona, Spain** – FC Barcelona continued their impressive January form with a dominant 5-1 victory over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey last 16 on Wednesday. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal stole the show, scoring one goal and providing two assists in a scintillating display that showcased his burgeoning talent.

The victory comes on the heels of Barcelona’s Spanish Super Cup triumph over Real Madrid and further cements their resurgence after a disappointing December. Despite resting key players like Robert Lewandowski, Marc Casado, and Alejandro Balde, Barcelona controlled the match from start to finish.

Gavi opened the scoring early, followed by a stunning volley from Jules Kounde, assisted by Yamal. Raphinha added a third after a Yamal-led counter-attack, and Ferran Torres made it 4-0 before Yamal capped his outstanding performance with a fifth goal, initially ruled offside but later confirmed by VAR. Betis managed a late penalty consolation through Vitor Roque.

Elsewhere in the Copa del Rey last 16, Getafe edged Pontevedra 1-0 despite finishing with nine men, Leganes defeated Almeria 3-2, and Atletico Madrid secured a comfortable 4-0 win over Elche. Valencia also advanced with a 2-0 victory over Ourense, meaning all eight quarter-finalists will be La Liga teams. Athletic Bilbao and Osasuna, and Real Sociedad and Rayo Vallecano, will contest the final two last-16 matches on Thursday.

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