Real Madrid struggled in the first half of the El Clasico Copa del Rey final but turned the game around in the second half with the introduction of Kylian Mbappe, who responded to Barcelona’s early lead with a stunning goal.

Kylian Mbappe, who started on the bench due to a right ankle issue, was brought on at halftime. His presence revitalized Real Madrid’s attack.

In the first half, Real Madrid was completely dominated by Barcelona, forcing Carlo Ancelotti to make changes. The first substitution, apart from the forced change of Ferland Mendy due to injury, was Mbappe’s introduction to add more attacking threat.

Rodrygo, who was ineffective in the first half, was the player sacrificed for Mbappe. The French forward immediately made an impact, energizing Real Madrid’s attack.

After several attacks, Mbappe earned a free-kick following a dazzling run past Barcelona defenders. Frenkie de Jong fouled him just outside the box, and while Real Madrid argued for a red card, the referee only showed a yellow.

Mbappe stepped up and delivered a perfect free-kick, curling the ball past the wall, hitting the post, and into the net. Real Madrid was back in the game, reigniting hopes of victory.