FCBARCELONA.CAT

13.05.2010 10:45

Cup win started historic run

Edgar Fornós

On May 13, 2009 FC Barcelona won the Copa del Rey to mark coach Pep Guardiola's first trophy success in charge and that triumph paved the way for the all-conquering six-cup haul that made history.

Exactly one year ago in Valencia's Mestalla stadium the Blaugrana won the domestic cup competition for the first time in eleven seasons only seven days after booking their place in the Champions League final with a late, late winning goal in the semi final at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea. In the league Villarreal had held Barça to a 3-3 draw in Camp Nou, but that stumble did not stop the Catalan side from going on to great things.

Four goals

The final of the Copa del Rey against Athletic Club de Bilbao will be remembered for the superb comeback by FC Barcelona, for the fervent support and for the way that both sets of fans stood together in a show of unity. Gaizka Toquero put the Basque outfit ahead, but goals from Touré Yaya, Lionel Messi, Bojan Krkic and Xavi saw Barça run out as 4-1 winners.

Fan zone

Around 18,000 FC Barcelona fans travelled south for the game and were able to enjoy a party atmosphere in the build-up as they mingled with Athletic supporters outside the ground. After the match the celebrations went on long into the night as the thoughts of a unique treble started to become a reality.

Valencia to Abu Dhabi

Months later Guardiola's tears on the pitch in the Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi came as the dream of winning all six trophies in a calendar year happened. Barça became world champions after winning the Copa del Rey, the league, the Champions League and both the Spanish and European Super Cups.