25 January 2024

MATCH REVIEWS | Semi-final showdowns between 4 previous winners

RCD Mallorca and Athletic Club join Real Sociedad in the semi-final, with At. Madrid and Sevilla FC. looking to qualify on Thursday.

Four teams who have already tasted cup glory compete for the title again in this season's Copa del Rey.

RCD MALLORCA 3-2 GIRONA FC

After Real Sociedad's success on Tuesday at Balaídos, on Wednesday it was the turn of RCD Mallorca to get one step closer to lifting the cup. They surprised Girona FC at Son Moix by handing them their first away defeat of the season.

Javier Aguirre's side cemented their victory with a great first half in which the Mexican coach's approach prevailed over Girona's close link-up play style.

Canada's Cyle Larin had the first chance early on, only to be denied by goalkeeper Juan Carlos. However, the North American would have the last laugh by scoring soon after with his next opportunity.

Shortly afterwards, Abdón Prats nearly brought the house down with a spectacular left foot strike from outside the area that left the goalkeeper no chance. Prats then sent the keeper the wrong way from the spot, following a VAR review for handball before the break.

After the restart, Girona FC threw everything at the home side and were rewarded with a penalty converted by Stuani, after a foul which also led to Raíllo being sent off for a second yellow card.

Deep into second-half injury time, a goal from Brazilian Sávio gave Míchel's side hope of a comeback and the possibility of making cup history. However, time was against them and the match finished 3-2 to the home side. A result which sees RCD Mallorca continue in their quest for place in the final in Seville on 6 April.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE VAR REVIEW AUDIOS

ATHLETIC CLUB 4-2 FC BARCELONA

For the fifth consecutive season, the Lions have reached the semi-finals of a competition that there can be no doubt that they have a soft spot for. Furthermore, they did so after an unbelievable night of drama la Catedral.

Ernesto Valverde's home side struck at crucial moments, with goals from Guruzeta in the opening minute and Oihan Sancet four minutes after the restart.

Earlier, FC Barcelona came from behind to go ahead on the night thanks to the killer instincts of Robert Lewandowski and a wonderful solo goal from the talented Lamine Yamal.

The Spanish international had a chance to score the winner, but after rounding goalkeeper Agirrezabala, his shot went over in the final stages of normal time.

In extra time, it was Iñaki Williams, recently back from the Africa Cup of Nations, who proved to be the key for the Basques, putting the home team in front thanks to his strength, power and finishing ability.

After Iñaki, his brother Nico finished off any chances of a comeback, scoring a wonderful outside of the boot goal that sailed into the far side netting. All of which means the rojiblancos are within three games of lifting the most coveted trophy in Spanish football, after decades of dreaming of further success.

Date	Time	Match	Result	Qualifier	Highlights	Match stats	Press Conference
Tuesday, 23 January 2024	21:30	RC Celta de Vigo - Real Sociedad	1-2	Real Sociedad	Watch here	Find out more	Listen here
Wednesday, 24 January 2024	19:30	RCD Mallorca - Girona FC	3-2	RCD Mallorca	Watch here	Find out more	Listen here
Wednesday, 24 January 2024	21:30	Athletic Club - FC Barcelona	4-2	Athletic Club	Watch here	Find out more	Listen here
Thursday, 25 January 2024	21:30	Atlético de Madrid - Sevilla FC