No shock this time! Yamal scores, Barcelona avoid Real Madrid slip-up against second-tier side at Copa del Rey

The context of this fixture changed significantly before a ball was even kicked at El Sardinero. On Wednesday, the footballing world was left in disbelief as Albacete knocked Real Madrid out of the competition. 

This occurred in what was Alvaro Arbeloa’s managerial debut following the high-profile departure of Xabi Alonso. With their primary challengers eliminated, the path for Hansi Flick’s squad has become considerably clearer.

Despite facing lower-league opposition, Hansi Flick opted for a formidable starting lineup to avoid any potential "giant-killing" scenarios. Joan Garcia started in goal, while stars such as Jules Kounde, Alejandro Balde, and Lamine Yamal were included from the first whistle. Ferran Torres was notably entrusted with the captaincy for the night. 

Racing Santander, buoyed by their status as Segunda Division leaders, relied on goalkeeper Jokin Ezkieta to spearhead their resistance.

The opening stages were frantic, with Racing’s high-intensity press momentarily rattling the visitors. However, Barcelona’s superior quality eventually took control of the tempo. 

The breakthrough arrived in the 66th minute when substitute Fermin Lopez threaded a brilliant pass through the heart of the Santander defense. Torres reacted quickest, rounding the keeper to score into an unguarded net.

In the dying moments, Racing nearly forced an equalizer through Manex Lozano, but Joan Garcia produced a stunning save to maintain the lead. This performance further highlights Garcia's incredible form; the Spanish shot-stopper has now kept a clean sheet in 6 of his last 7 appearances for the club.

Victory was secured in stoppage time through a swift counter-attack. Raphinha delivered a precise low cross to Lamine Yamal, who made no mistake with a simple tap-in. For the 18-year-old sensation, this goal was particularly significant as it ended a four-match scoring drought. 

Furthermore, Yamal continues to make history by becoming one of the youngest players to find the net in back-to-back Copa del Rey campaigns.

This result extends Barcelona’s impressive streak to 13 consecutive domestic wins, a run dating back to their narrow El Clasico defeat in October. Flick has successfully turned the team into a disciplined winning machine across all competitions.

Barcelona now awaits the quarter-final draw this Monday. However, their immediate focus shifts back to La Liga, where they will host Real Sociedad at the Spotify Camp Nou in just three days for a crucial Matchday 20 clash.