Yamal Propels Barcelona Past Betis Into Copa Del Rey Quarterfinals With Dominant Performance

Barcelona produced a dominant performance to dispatch Real Betis 2-1 in the last 16 of the Copa del Rey on Thursday, with Ansu Fati and Raphinha on target. Betis took the lead through Nabil Fekir after 28 minutes, but Barcelona responded in style, equalizing through Fati just five minutes later. Raphinha then put Barcelona ahead just before half-time, and the Catalan giants held on to their lead in the second half to book their place in the last eight.

Fati and Raphinha Shine as Barcelona Dominate Betis

Barcelona were in impressive form from the off, with Fati and Raphinha causing the Betis defense all sorts of problems. Fati was lively throughout, using his pace and skill to get into dangerous positions. He was rewarded for his efforts with a well-taken goal, his first of the season. Raphinha was also in fine form, providing the assist for Fati's goal and then scoring himself with a powerful strike from outside the area.

Betis Gave Barcelona a Scare

Despite Barcelona's dominance, Betis managed to take the lead through Fekir. The Frenchman latched onto a through ball and finished coolly past Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Betis then had a chance to double their lead, but Borja Iglesias headed wide from close range. Barcelona made them pay for that miss, with Fati and Raphinha scoring in quick succession to turn the game on its head.

Barcelona Hold on to Secure Victory

Betis came out fighting in the second half, but Barcelona defended resolutely to protect their lead. Ter Stegen made a number of important saves, and the Barcelona backline was in inspired form. Betis had a couple of chances to equalize, but they were unable to find a way past the Barcelona defense. In the end, Barcelona held on to secure a deserved victory.

What's Next for Barcelona and Betis?

Barcelona will now face Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinals. The two sides will meet in the first leg at the Camp Nou on March 1, with the second leg taking place at the Santiago Bernabeu on March 5. Betis, meanwhile, will turn their attention back to La Liga, where they are currently fifth in the table.

Conclusion

Barcelona produced a dominant performance to defeat Real Betis 2-1 and book their place in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals. Fati and Raphinha were the stars of the show for Barcelona, with the former scoring his first goal of the season and the latter providing the assist for Fati's goal and scoring himself. Betis gave Barcelona a scare by taking the lead, but the Catalan giants responded in style to secure their victory. Barcelona will now face Real Madrid in the semifinals, while Betis will turn their attention back to La Liga.