For the short trip to Cornella, a stone’s throw from Barcelona, Lionel Messi, among others, got a rest from trainer Ronald Koeman. Still a small risk for the Dutchman, because Cornella had actually eliminated Atletico Madrid in the previous round.
And the third division team also did very well against the regional rival. Goalkeeper Ramon Juan was the hero of the evening by saving two penalties.
Contrary to all expectations, Cornella forced extensions, but Barcelona could still make the difference. Dembélé and Braithwaite provided the redeeming goals.