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      Barcelona 3 Real Madrid 2 (AET): Kounde bags extra-time winner as Barca survive VAR controversy to claim Copa del Rey

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      JULES KOUNDE outshone fellow Frenchman Kylian Mbappe as Barcelona sealed a historic Copa del Rey win over rivals Real Madrid. The match was played following an extraordinary refereeing row, with Madrid forced to deny they would boycott the fixture. Jules Kounde scored a brilliant winner to secure the Copa del Rey for BarcelonaCredit: APLamine Yamal and Co led early in the first half through PedriCredit: ReutersBut Kylian Mbappe turned the game on its head with a brilliant freekickCredit: APDespite the Frenchman’s heroics, it was his fellow countryman Kounde who stole the showCredit: APThe full-back’s late strike came with the game seemingly destined for penaltiesCredit: APLos Blancos trailed early in the contest following a strike from Pedri at Seville’s Estadio La Cartuja. But after the break, Madrid stormed back thanks to some inspiration from Mbappe.The French talisman turned the game on its head with his first-ever career free-kick goal. The 22-year-old took aim from just outside the area after being chopped down by Frenkie De Jong.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLMbappe unleashed a powerful, low, right-footed free-kick which flew in off the post.And just minutes later, Aurelien Tchouameni headed in to put Madrid on the cusp of their 21st Copa del Rey title.Carlo Ancelotti’s men made it to within five minutes of the whistle before they were pegged back by Ferran Torres.The ex-Man City star was sent clear and rounded keeper Thibault Courtois to level things up.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBarca thought they had won it late in stoppage time as Raphinha went down under a challenge from Asencio.Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea initially gave the spot-kick, only to book the Brazilian for simulation after a VAR review.Barcelona coach SMASHES IPAD in fury as he appeals for penalty in La Liga clashDespite the time ticking past midnight in Spain, the game headed into an energy-sapping extra time.And as time ticked towards penalties, it was Arsenal-target Kounde who proved to be the Barca hero. He intercepted a rare loose pass from Luka Modric on the edge of the box, thundering a low strike past Courtois and sparking jubilant scenes in the Barca end.The goal sealed the Catalan giants’ 32nd success in the competition and their first since 2021.Saturday’s final had been dogged by reports before kick-off that Madrid would boycott the spectacle. Referee Bengoetxea broke down in tears during an extraordinary press conference on Thursday.The Spanish official tearfully responded to a video by Real’s in-house TV channel RMTV.The video highlighted decisions that had gone against Real, which the club believe to have been incorrect.Real Madrid later responded to the rumours, writing in a statement: “Our team has never considered giving up playing tomorrow’s final. Read More on The Sun”Our club understands that the unfortunate and inappropriate statements made 24 hours before the final by the referees appointed for this match cannot taint a sporting event of global significance which will be watched by hundreds of millions of people. “We also express our respect for all the fans who are planning to travel to Seville, and for all those already in the Andalusian capital.” More

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      Real Madrid issue statement after making ref break down in tears and ‘threat to BOYCOTT Copa del Rey final vs Barcelona’

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      REAL MADRID have issued a statement following a referee breaking down in tears ahead of the Copa del Rey final.Los Blancos are due to face rivals Barcelona at the Estadio de La Cartuja tonight.Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea broke down in tears during a press conferenceCredit: Copa Del ReyThe official was targeted by a video released by RMTVCredit: APThe video showcased his decisions against Real MadridCredit: ReutersThere were thoughts that Los Blancos could boycott the Copa del Rey finalCredit: GettyHowever, the capital-based club pulled out of pre-match activities after referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea’s press conference.The Spanish official broke down as he responded to a video by Real’s in-house TV channel RMTV.The video highlighted decisions that had gone against Real, which the club believe to have been incorrect.An emotional De Brugos said: “To see your son come from school crying because some kids have said his dad is a crook is very hard to take.READ MORE FOOTBALL”What I do is tell my son that his father is honourable. I make mistakes, like any athlete, but I am honourable.”I want my son to be proud of his father and of the refereeing profession.”Nobody has the right to submit my colleagues to what they are dealing with.”Reuters has claimed that Real views the ref’s comments as a “clear conflict of interest.”Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKA source told the outlet that the club believe that the refereeing team should be changed for the final.However, the Spanish FA rejected the request.You’re a football superfan if you can work out Brazil and Real Madrid legend’s son, 16, by his iconic playing style Real Madrid statementHere is the full statement released by Real Madrid…It read: “In light of the rumours that have arisen in the last few hours, Real Madrid C.F. communicates that our team never considered refusing to play in the final.”Our club understands that the unfortunate and inappropriate statements from the referees appointed for this match, made 24 hours before the final, cannot tarnish a sporting event of global importance that will be watched by hundreds of millions of people and also out of respect also for all the fans who are planning to travel to Seville, and for all those who are already in the Andalusian capital.”Real Madrid understands that football’s values must prevail, despite the hostility and animosity that has today once again been shown against our club, by the referees appointed for the final.”The actions of the club led many to believe that they may boycott the final entirely.However, Real later released a statement that insisted that it “never considered” withdrawing from the match.The club continued to argue that “football’s values must prevail, despite animosity that has once again been shown against our club”.The final VAR, Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes, joined De Brugos at his press conference.He insisted that referees will soon take action against the constant pressure they are under.He added: “In a few days, you all will see.”We are going to make history and we are not going to continue to put up with what we are putting up with.”A strike? You will have news from us soon.”Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has also weighed in on the referee debacle.The German insisted that officials, like players, need to be protected,He said: “For me, it’s only a sport. It’s only a game.Read More on The Sun”It’s only football.”It is our responsibility to protect not only the players but all the people involved in the game.”Hansi Flick claimed referees need to be protectedCredit: Getty More

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      Jude Bellingham hailed as new Zidane by Premier League cult hero with star ‘easily’ comparable to Real Madrid legend

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      JUDE BELLINGHAM has been compared to Zinedine Zidane and told he could end his career as a Real Madrid great.The England superstar will try to guide Madrid to Copa del Rey glory today when they face Barcelona in the final in Seville.Jude Bellingham’s fiery side has been praisedCredit: GettyHe has been tipped to become a Real Madrid great like Zinedine ZidaneCredit: GettyFrederic Kanoute believes Bellingham can hit Zidane’s levelsCredit: JAMES RUDLANDBellingham, 21, did the LaLiga and Champions League double in his first season at the Bernabeu.And Frederic Kanoute – who spent seven seasons in LaLiga with Sevilla – reckons there are similarities with the West Midlander and France’s World Cup winner.Not just in terms of their incredible talents but the fact Bellingham also plays on the edge and seems to be one second away from a rough tackle or moment of dissent.Kanoute, a former striker for West Ham and Tottenham, told SunSport: “It would be very easy for me to compare him to Zinedine Zidane.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“He’s a fan himself. He took his number five and plays for the same club. And he has a little bit of an edge as well.“Right now, it’s not a full comparison. Zidane has proven everything in football and is one of the greatest in history. But I think it’s a good benchmark for him to have. “I played against Zidane. The ease that he had to go past his opponents effortlessly, and with class and elegance.“At the same time, this strength of character that he had, and a winning mentality, it was the full package.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSBellingham, who moved to Spain from Borussia Dortmund for £88.5million in the summer of 2023, has scored three goals in five El Clasicos.Yet he does have to curb his temperament and was sent off in a 1-1 draw at Osasuna in February – and then served a two-game ban for swearing at the referee.New footage ‘shows Jude Bellingham in tense standoff with Ancelotti’ as Real Madrid boss ‘mortally wounded’ by Arsenal Kanoute has no issues with that, however, and he said: “In any sport, you need to have a little bit of that edge.“Obviously you need to channel it and he’s still very young. I think he’ll learn how to channel it, not to cross that line.“But I think you can see all the top players, they have something as they are always competitive.“It’s definitely something that can be turned into a positive.“Jude has raised the standard in LaLiga. It only happens a few times that English players go and play in LaLiga.“His adaptation is quite impressive, especially in Real Madrid, where the pressure is huge.“What strikes me with him is the extreme level of confidence he has, and he has had a very positive impact on the team.“One of his most positive assets of his game is his mental strength. He’s a leader. A natural leader.Read More on The Sun“He has all the ingredients to become one of the greats in England and at international level.”++ Kanoute was speaking as La Liga and Bloomsbury Football opened the Harris Academy in St John’s Wood, London. This partnership supports youth football in the UK and ensures players from all backgrounds in London have access to the game. More

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      Luis Figo ‘SPLITS’ from Swedish model Wag with pair ‘leading separate lives’ as football icon ‘moves out of family home’

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      LEGENDARY Portuguese footballer Luís Figo and his stunning Swedish model wife Helen Svedin have reportedly separated, according to Spanish media.The former Real Madrid and Barcelona star, 52, and the 50-year-old blonde beauty, who tied the knot in 2001, have ended their romantic relationship.Luis Figo is regarded by many as one of the best talents of his eraCredit: EPAHelen Svedin has three children with Luis FigoLuis Figo was so good he won the Ballon D’orCredit: Getty ImagesFigo, who has attended events with his wife over the years, was recently spotted alone at the Laureus Awards, where he named his daughters Daniela, Martina and Stella as the best thing to have ever happened to him, but left out his wife.Spanish outlet Vanitatis has reported that both Figo and Svedin are now “leading separate lives,” although there has been no official confirmation of a separation.Spanish publication Marca adds that Figo had already temporarily left the family home for two weeks three years ago.Marca also reports that Figo had been linked to model Claudia Bavel, who previously claimed to have had a relationship with his former teammate Iker Casillas. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, the 2000 Ballon d’Or winner denied these rumours and threatened legal action.Figo and Svedin, who have three children together, appeared to have it all. A glamorous marriage filled with lavish holidays, red carpet events, and more. BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKYet, behind closed doors, there seemed to be trouble brewing.Most read in FootballFigo, who has kept a relatively low profile since his retirement from football, has been focused on his post-soccer ventures. While Svedin has continued to enjoy the limelight in the fashion industry.The couple’s love story captured the public’s imagination. Figo, one of football’s most dazzling stars, met Svedin in 1996.Luis Suarez appears to try to BITE player… but quickly stops when he realises it’s his own team-mate When she was at the height of her modelling career. It wasn’t long before they fell head over heels for each other, and their whirlwind romance led to a marriage that seemed straight out of a fairytale.But, as with everything in life, it seems that the end has come, and both will have to go their separate ways.Figo is undoubtedly one of the most gifted players of his generation, winning 16 trophies in total, including the UEFA Champions League, playing for Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan. More

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      Man Utd ‘make transfer approach for Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia’ as they look to replace Andre Onana

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have made a move to sign goalkeeper Joan Garcia, according to reports.The Red Devils could decide to cash-in on Andre Onana this summer amid interest from Saudi Arabian sides.Joan Garcia is wanted by Man UtdCredit: RexThe club are looking at replacements for Andre OnanaCredit: RexUnited’s No1 has had another season blighted by errors, but he is keen to stay and fight for his place under Ruben Amorim.However, Espanyol keeper Garcia has emerged as Onana’s possible replacement.Reports in Spain claim United have “made an approach” to “tempt” the 23-year-old into moving to Old Trafford before making an official offer.Garcia is said to have a £21million release clause that rises to £25m towards the end of the summer transfer window.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThough that figure is set to increase by £4.25m should he win his first senior cap for Spain.Garcia, who an Olympic gold medal with his nation at the Paris Games last year, is one of LaLiga’s top young talents.He became Espanyol’s main man during the second half of last term, helping them win promotion to the top-flight and taking home their player of the season award.Garcia has continued to impress this campaign, keeping seven clean sheets in 32 games.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHe has won two LaLiga save of the month awards and he produced a man of the match performance as they shocked Real Madrid 1-0 in February.Arsenal and the Champions League holders are also keeping an eye on the stopper, but reports about interest from Bayern Munich are supposedly false.Nemanja Matic brands Andre Onana ‘one of worst keepers in Man Utd HISTORY’ in savage response to goalieEspanyol chief Fran Garagarza has not ruled out Garcia’s departure and said earlier this year: “There’s a lot of noise but nothing is happening. “There’s no firm movement like there was in the previous window.”There may be movements because he’s a top-level goalkeeper, but we’re calm, and most importantly, the kid is very calm.”Meanwhile, United have also been linked with Porto No1 Diogo Costa.But bitter rivals Manchester City are set to swoop after Ineos chiefs were put off by his £64m release clause.Ederson has just a year remaining on his contract and is tempted by a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. More

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      My mum’s a famous actress and my dad won the Champions League with Mourinho, now I’m making my own way at Real Madrid

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      THE son of a former Champions League winner and famous actress is joining Real Madrid.Cesar Peixoto was a midfielder in the Porto squad that clinched European glory under Jose Mourinho in 2004.Rodrigo is set to join Real MadridCredit: InstagramCesar Peixoto won the Champions League in his playing daysCredit: GettyRodrigo’s mum Isabel Figueira is an actress and TV presenterCredit: InstagramOff the pitch, the one-time capped Portugal international married actress and TV presenter Isabel Figueira.The couple, who have since divorced, had one child together named Rodrigo.And the 18-year-old is now making his own way at Real Madrid.But unlike his father, Rodrigo will not be swinging in crosses from the left flank.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe is instead studying Sports Management at a top university in Europe.Rodrigo has used his sporting connections and is set to finish his course with a four-month internship at Real Madrid as he hopes to land a full-time job behind-the-scenes.Despite not being a footballer, his move into management does see him follow in his dad’s footsteps.Peixoto, 44, is currently the manager of Portuguese Primeira Liga club Gil Vincente.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSDuring his playing days, he spent five years at Porto before moving on to Espanyol, Braga and Benfica.He is now married to another actress in Diana Chaves and they have a 13-year-old daughter named Pilar.Jose Mourinho ruins Mauro Icardi with sarcastic comments and fans love it Jose Mourinho guided Porto to Champions League glory in 2004Credit: Getty More

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      Forgotten Arsenal flop set for Emirates return after injury nightmare with Sevilla unlikely to trigger transfer option

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      ARSENAL flop Albert Sambi Lokonga is set for a summer return to the Emirates after suffering his fourth injury of the season during his loan stint at Sevilla.Lokonga, 25, joined the Andalusian outfit in July for the 2024-25 campaign in a deal that includes a £10.25million buy option.Arsenal flop Albert Sambi Lokonga is set for a summer return to the EmiratesSevilla are not keen to trigger Lokonga’s release clause amid his loan stint due to injuryAccording to The Mirror, however, the LaLiga giants are unlikely to trigger that option due to persistent hamstring issues that have limited the midfielder to just 21 appearances across all competitions.That poses as a blow for the Gunners, who wish to raise funds to bolster their transfer budget for the summer market.Had that figure been met, the North Londoners would have also inherited a 25 per cent sell-on clause.The same source suggests Sevilla tried to negotiate a lower release clause.Read More on ArsenalHowever, chances of a permanent deal are growing slimmer after yet another injury setback Lokonga’s contract with Arsenal runs out in 2026, which means the Premier League giants will be determined to offload him one way or another this summer.That is because – as per the same source – there is no way back for the ex-Anderlecht star into Mikel Arteta’s first team.Nevertheless, the loan deal with Sevilla is paying off as it’s the Spaniards who are covering Lokonga’s wages.Most read in FootballBack in February, the player stated his desire to stay at Sevilla after turning down multiple offers from other clubs last summer.Lokonga said: “I feel very good. I’m growing. I feel better with each game. How Arsenal can outsmart PSG in Champions League semi-final”After leaving Anderlecht, Sevilla is the club where I feel very, very good. “I want to stay but it’s not just my decision. It’s early days and we’ll see each other at the end of the year.”Lokonga also had two uneventful loan stints at Crystal Palace and Luton Town these past couple of years.The Belgian has made 39 appearances for Arsenal since his arrival in 2021. More

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      Pep Guardiola and wife Cristina ‘giving each other a second chance after Man City boss ‘spent Easter in Barcelona’

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      MAN City boss Pep Guardiola and his wife Cristina are reportedly giving things another go after spending Easter together in Barcelona.The pair announced their shock split in January after 30 years together – with divorce proceedings commencing the following month.Pep is not giving up on his marriage to Cristina, sources sayCredit: GettyThe pair pictured in 2023 in Istanbul, married in 2014Credit: GettyCristina moved back to Barcelona in 2019 while Pep continued his work with Manchester CityCredit: GettyBut, following a three-day trip to Barcelona over the Easter break, the couple are now believed to be “giving each other another chance,” according to Catalan newspaper El Nacional – as sources claim that “all is not lost in their marriage”.The pair appeared to start drifting back in 2019, when fashion entrepreneur Cristina moved back to Barcelona to focus on her business interests.But it was Pep’s decision last November to renew his contract with Manchester City until 2027 that reportedly expedited their split.Now, the manager has pledged to visit Barcelona once a week in between fixtures, a source told El Nacional.read more football newsMaria Lapiedra claimed the decision was to prevent them going weeks without seeing each other.The report also states that the couple – who share three children – are still wearing their weddings rings.The rescue operation appeared to kick off last month – amid reports that Pep had returned to the family home in Barcelona for a secret visit.The 54-year-old caught a private jet from Manchester just hours after his team’s 3-1 win against Plymouth in the FA Cup.Most read in FootballA source said: “They spent three nights together in Barcelona, both staying at the family home.“Pep went out on Monday to the dentist and Cristina went to her fashion shop in the city centre.Watch hilarious moment Pep Guardiola tells fan ‘your wife is going to kill me’ after bizarre tattoo stunt “They met up again at the shop and spent three hours there before returning to the house to spend the evening together.“Pep left for Manchester on Tuesday morning.”Pep and Cristina met in 1994 but didn’t marry until 2014 – tying the knot at an intimate ceremony on the outskirts of Barcelona.They had spent the majority of their marriage living separately when Cristina decided to move back to Barcelona with one of their daughters, Valentina.Their other two children, Maria and Marius, remained in the UK with Pep.The pair continued to make things work long distance until their split in December of last year.However, they insisted that things would remain amicable throughout divorce proceedings – and that they would even share the same legal team.Sources said in February that they had already agreed the initial terms of a multi-million pound settlement agreement – which would be finalised in a matter of weeks.Respected Spanish journalist Lorena Vazquez, who broke the story of their split, revealed: “They want it above all to be friendly for the sake of their children.”As you can imagine money is not going to be an issue and they have already agreed the initial terms to make sure this separation is the most cordial possible.”They have a very good relationship, so much so that the same lawyer is arranging the whole thing.”The divorce is on the way and is being left in the hands of people with their absolute trust.”Read More on The SunManchester City declined to comment.Pep’s decision to renew his contract with the club is believed to be a major factor in their splitCredit: AlamyThe manager has made several trips back to Barcelona in a reported attempt to rectify their marriageCredit: AlamyThe couple with their daughter Maria at Wimbledon last yearCredit: APPep kissing Cristina Serra after winning the UEFA Champions League 2022/23 finalCredit: Getty More