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Barcelona boss Luis Enrique delighted to win 'spectacular' Copa final

Barcelona won a spiteful Copa del Rey final against Sevilla 2-0 on Sunday.

Barca were the last team to clinch back-to-back Copas del Rey, which they did under Bobby Robson and Louis van Gaal's guidance, though they had to dig deep to make it a domestic double in 2016 having played for more than an hour with 10 men following Javier Mascherano's first-half dismissal.

The La Liga champions stood firm against the Europa League victors, who were back in action following Wednesday's win over Liverpool in Switzerland, and when Ever Banega's red card levelled up the numbers ahead of extra time, Barca had the staying power.

Lionel Messi's terrific vision led to Jordi Alba's first goal of the season in the 97th minute and the Argentinian then teed up Neymar for a second after Daniel Carrico had also been sent off for two cautions.

Barca coach Luis Enrique stated: "It was a spectacular end to the season. Not only for the last few must-win league games but because of how the Cup final unfolded. Very difficult, down a man. We played perfectly, much improved on the defensive end.

"Sevilla created a lot of pressure. We defended very well and the team knew how to compete despite the difficulties. I congratulate them, I congratulate all Barça fans and those who came despite the late kick-off."

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Carlos Volcano

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