The 2025 Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, played at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville, ended in a dramatic 3-2 victory for Barça after extra time. The match, already tense due to heavy criticism from Madrid towards referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea before kickoff, descended into chaos with three Real Madrid players sent off. Antonio Rüdiger, who was a substitute, threw an ice pack at the referee and had to be restrained by teammates. Lucas Vázquez and Jude Bellingham were also sent off for vehement protests, with Bellingham being shown the red card after the final whistle.

These incidents sparked widespread condemnation across Europe, shining a harsh light on the behavior of both the Real Madrid players and their management. The pressure exerted by the club on the referee before the match — including videos circulated on Real Madrid TV questioning his impartiality — was heavily criticized by the media and fans alike. The referee, visibly affected by this atmosphere, spoke out after the match about the personal toll such attacks were taking on him.

This painful defeat, combined with conduct seen as unacceptable, could have serious consequences for Real Madrid. Antonio Rüdiger faces a potential suspension of up to twelve games, jeopardizing the club’s already fragile end of the season. Meanwhile, FC Barcelona celebrates its 32nd Copa del Rey title and continues to dream of a historic treble under manager Hansi Flick. For Real Madrid, the loss on the field has been compounded by an even bigger loss off it — the collapse of its proud image.