Aitana Guides Barça Closer to Copa del Rey Final with Stunning Performance

In a footballing spectacle at the iconic San Mamés stadium, Barcelona made a triumphant return to competition with a resounding victory over Athletic Bilbao. Aitana’s double and a goal from Salma Paralluelo showcased an outstanding performance, putting Barcelona one step closer to the grand final of the Copa de la Reina. The evening was further enchanted by the return of Fridolina Rolfö to the pitch, six months after her knee surgery, bringing smiles to the world of football.

Giráldez’s lineup, almost a gala eleven with some modifications, reflected the return of players from international duty. Notably, Sandra Paños, Marta Torrejón, and Claudia Pina, who had enjoyed some rest, were in the starting lineup. A special match for Irene Paredes, with her past connection to Athletic, playing in front of a crowd of 23,490 in San Mamés.

Barça quickly imposed their dominance, seeking redemption in the competition after the previous season’s elimination due to an improper lineup. The Catalans maintained total ball control, while Athletic opted for a defensive approach with two lines of five and four against Nanclares. The objective for Athletic was clear: hold out for as long as possible and carry a glimmer of hope to the Johan Cruyff Stadium.

AITANA SHINES However, when Aitana Bonmatí takes the stage, defenses crumble. The midfielder from Sant Pere de Ribes opened the scoring with a superb goal worthy of the Cathedral in the first notable chance for Barcelona. Just three minutes later, she struck again. A signature play from Caroline Graham Hansen, including her customary cut inside, resulted in a backward pass to Aitana, who curled the ball past Nanclares into the net. The tie remained alive as long as she desired, with Nanclares denying Pina’s attempt for the third goal just before halftime.

SALMA’S THIRD AND ROLFÖ’S RETURN Barça had numerous opportunities to extend their lead further, but Nanclares stood firm, showcasing a performance nearly as impressive as her penalty shootout heroics against Costa Adeje Tenerife in the quarter-finals. The Catalans lacked precision and effectiveness in the final third, given the well-organized Athletic defense.

Manager Giráldez utilized the comfortable lead to make rotations and provide rest, bringing in Salma Paralluelo, who promptly fulfilled her goal-scoring mission. The Zaragozan forward netted the third and decisive goal for Barcelona, receiving a pass from the lively Bruna. Despite the overwhelming superiority, Mariona’s Messi-like moment encapsulated the difficulty of finding spaces in the Athletic box.

The highlight of the evening, however, was the return of Fridolina Rolfö to the playing field. The Swedish winger reclaimed her position on the left flank, reigniting the joy of being on the football field. With this resounding ‘three’ at San Mamés, Barcelona is on the verge of securing a spot in the Copa del Rey final, pending the next week’s encounter at the Johan Cruyff Stadium. Let’s hope this isn’t the last match for Barcelona at San Mamés this season.