MADRID (AP) — A day after Real Madrid faltered in the Copa del Rey, defending champion Barcelona avoided an upset and advanced to the quarterfinals with a 2-0 win over second division leaders Racing Santander on Thursday.
Madrid lost to Barcelona in last year’s Copa final. Lost 3-2 to second division Albacete Wednesday will be the debut game for coach Alvaro Arbeloa.
Santander broke the deadlock in the 66th minute when Ferran Torres broke free, receiving a pass from Fermin López and firing past the goalkeeper and into the net. Lamine Yamal sealed the victory in the final six minutes of stoppage time.
Racing had two goals disallowed for offside, one in the 77th minute and the other in the 86th minute. In stoppage time of the second half, Barcelona’s goalkeeper João Garcia missed a golden opportunity to equalize the score in a 1-on-1 situation, with substitute Manex Lozano’s shot being saved at the last minute.
“I’m happy to have Joao in goal,” Torres said. “These teams are well prepared and have quality players. That’s why it’s so tough (for first-division teams).”
The match was delayed 15 minutes due to problems accessing the stadium in northern Spain.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick did not start some of his top players, including Rafinha, Robert Lewandowski and Pedri. All three entered the game midway through the second half.
Before kick-off, Racing players formed a guard of honor for the Spanish Super Cup winners and lined up to salute Barcelona players as they entered the field.
In the other Round of 16 match on Thursday, Valencia scored in the second half to advance with a 2-0 victory over second-division club Burgos.
On Tuesday, Atlético Madrid defeated second division Deportivo La Coruña 1-0.
The other teams that made it to the last eight were Real Sociedad, Athletic Bilbao, Real Betis and Alaves.
The draw for the quarterfinals will be held on Monday.
The Copa final will be held in Sevilla on April 25th.
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