Santander, 16 January (H.S.): Barcelona delivered a commanding performance in the Copa del Rey on Thursday, defeating second-division frontrunners Racing Santander 2-0 at El Sardinero Stadium to secure quarterfinal progression with second-half strikes from Ferran Torres and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

The contest unfolded with fierce intensity, Barcelona dominating possession early yet struggling to breach a resilient Racing defense. Dani Olmo squandered a clear chance in the first half, while Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia produced a stunning save to deny Kamarr Slooman's effort; Racing custodian Jokin Ezkieta later thwarted Fermín López and substitute Robert Lewandowski in rapid succession during the 80th minute.

Torres broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, exploiting Racing's offside trap with impeccable timing on a through ball, rounding Ezkieta, and slotting into an unguarded net.

Racing's Manex Lozano missed a golden opportunity in stoppage time, paving the way for Barcelona's swift counter: Raphinha's low cross found Yamal, whose clinical finish sealed victory and eliminated two late offside-disallowed Racing claims.

Coach Hansi Flick fielded near-full strength—mindful of Real Madrid's shock loss to lower-league Albacete—ensuring no complacency against the Segunda División leaders. Barcelona joins Athletic Bilbao, Alavés, Albacete, Atlético Madrid, Real Betis, Real Sociedad, and Valencia in the last eight; the Spanish Football Federation will conduct Monday's quarterfinal draw, with ties scheduled for February 3-5.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar