Gareth Bale Scores Late Winner To Win First Trophy In Spain, As Real Madrid Beat Barcelona 2-1 To Clinch Copa del Rey

Gareth Bale scored a sensational late winner to clinch his first piece of silverware in Spain as Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 in the Copa del Rey final. Bale was the match winner with just five minutes remaining as he started with the ball in his own half, knocked it past Marc Bartra on the left wing and sprinted towards goal, cutting inside and putting it through the legs of Barcelona keeper Pinto.

There was still time for Neymar’s shot to hit the post at the other end and roll back into Iker Casillas arms but it was Madrid and Bale’s night. He had won the battle of last summer’s big signings and his first trophy in Spain.

Bale started strongly as did Madrid. He was released by Isco and sent an angled shot just wide of Jose Pinto’s goal.

Iniesta carried the greatest threat for Barcelona going down under Carvajal’s challenge. The young right-back had got a foot to the ball and referee Antonio Lahoz ignored penalty appeals.

Bale forced a corner off of Mascherano when fed by Benzmea as Madrid pressed again. His ability to take full advantage of the space left by Dani Alves was an early tactic and on 10 minutes it paid off.

Mailonline