Feb 21 • 22:21 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Baskonia defeats Barça and returns to the Cup final after 17 years

Baskonia secured a narrow victory over Barcelona to reach the Copa del Rey final for the first time since 2009.

Baskonia advanced to the Copa del Rey final, marking their first appearance in the final since 2009, after defeating Barcelona in a tense match. The game showcased a critical moment where Mamadi Diakité made a significant block against Toko Shengelia, preventing Barcelona from extending the game into overtime. This victory was especially remarkable for Baskonia, considering it came after a two-year absence from the competition and highlighted Barcelona's struggles without key player Kevin Punter, who was notably missed by the team.

The match was part of a much-anticipated semifinal round, following an exhilarating first semifinal between Real Madrid and Valencia. Baskonia's performance stood out, especially in the final quarter, where Barcelona significantly faltered, scoring only nine points. The victory not only serves as a significant accomplishment for Baskonia but also emphasizes the depth and competitiveness of Spanish basketball, particularly in high-stakes matches where every point counts.

For Baskonia, reaching the final renews hopes for a Copa del Rey title that they have yet to secure in the modern era of the competition, and it sets the stage for an exciting matchup against Real Madrid, who are perennial favorites. This win not only boosts the team's morale but also promises to invigorate their fan base and potentially attract a larger audience to the final, showcasing the growing popularity of basketball in Spain and the increasing competitiveness among top teams in the league.

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