Athletic Bilbao Stuns FC Barcelona In Copa Del Rey Semifinal

Athletic Bilbao Stuns FC Barcelona In Copa Del Rey Semifinal...

Athletic Bilbao pulled off a dramatic 3-2 victory over FC Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semifinal second leg on Saturday, eliminating the La Liga giants from the competition. The Basque club advanced 4-3 on aggregate after a thrilling match at San Mamés, marking Barcelona's earliest Copa exit in five years.

The match is trending in the U.S. due to Barcelona's global fanbase and the growing American interest in Spanish football. ESPN's broadcast drew strong viewership, while social media erupted over Bilbao's late winner by Iñaki Williams in the 94th minute.

Barcelona took an early lead through Robert Lewandowski, but Bilbao responded with goals from Oihan Sancet and Nico Williams. Lamine Yamal equalized for Barça before Iñaki Williams' decisive header. The result leaves Xavi Hernández's squad with only La Liga and Champions League ambitions this season.

U.S. fans particularly noted the performances of American-born forward Iñaki Williams, who has Ghanaian nationality but was raised in Bilbao. His brother Nico, also a Bilbao standout, is reportedly being scouted by Premier League clubs.

The upset comes during a pivotal week for Barcelona, who face Napoli in the Champions League on March 12. Pressure is mounting on manager Xavi after this cup elimination, with Spanish media speculating about his future.

Bilbao will face Mallorca in the April 6 final, seeking their first Copa del Rey trophy since 1984. The historic Basque club has now eliminated both Barcelona and Atlético Madrid in this year's tournament.

American viewers can watch highlights on ESPN+ and Paramount+, which hold U.S. rights to Copa del Rey and La Liga coverage. The match replay is already among the platform's most-watched soccer events this weekend.