Barcelona were made to work far harder than expected as they secured a narrow 2-0 victory over third-division side Guadalajara in the Round of 32 of the Copa del Rey. Goals from Andreas Christensen and Marcus Rashford eventually sent the Catalan giants through, but the performance was far from straightforward for Hansi Flick’s rotated side.

With one eye on a congested fixture list, Flick made sweeping changes to his starting XI. The headline decision saw Marc-André ter Stegen make his first start of the season after a long injury layoff, a welcome sight for the travelling supporters. Despite dominating possession, Barcelona struggled to find rhythm against an organised and fearless Guadalajara.

The first half produced chances at both ends, but goalkeepers were on top, keeping the score level at the break. After the restart, the pattern remained frustratingly familiar for Barcelona. Clear opportunities came and went, including a glaring miss from close range by Rashford, currently on loan from Manchester United.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 76th minute. A pinpoint delivery from Frenkie de Jong found Christensen, who rose highest to power a header into the net and relieve the mounting pressure. Deep into stoppage time, Rashford made amends in style, curling home a superb finish in the 90th minute to seal the win and kill off any lingering hopes of a cup shock.

2025-26, Spain - Copa del Rey

CD Guadalajara - Barcelona 0:2 (0:0)
Goals: Christensen A., 76 (0:1); Rashford, 90 (0:2)

Barcelona: ter Stegen; Christensen A.; Garcia E.; Jofre; de Jong F.; Fermin Fermin; Casado M.; Bernal; Yamal; Rashford; Bardagji
Bench: García Jo.; Szczesny; Balde Al.; Cubarsí; Martín G.; Kounde; Fernández Dro; Raphinha; Torres F.; Pedri