Copa del Rey 2018-19: 3 reasons why Real Madrid lost to Barcelona in the semifinals 

3. Barcelona’s adaptability

Valverde's defensive tactics helped Barcelona reach the final of Copa del Rey

Ernesto Valverde had come into a lot criticism from Barcelona fans for not playing the brand of football that the Blaugrana are famous for but on Wednesday, Valverde’s defensive football helped them to qualify for the final of the Copa del Rey.

In the first half, Barcelona were completely outplayed as Real Madrid looked ruthless while cutting in from the flanks. At halftime, Barcelona decided to sit deep and defend astutely and this decision was the gamechanger as all the three goals were a result of counter attacks. Whenever Real Madrid looked looked to cut in from the flanks, Barcelona gave them no space to pass the ball and the Madrid wingers were forced to deliver aerial balls which were easily cleared by Pique and Alba.

Real Madrid got frustrated after each failed attempt on goal and their defensive line kept moving higher up the pitch which created easy chances for Barcelona on the break. With the next Clasico only three days away, Barcelona will be running high after this inspiring victory.