What Happens If There Is a Draw in the Copa del Rey?

The Copa del Rey, Spain’s most prestigious domestic cup competition, often delivers thrilling matches filled with drama and unexpected results. But what happens if there is a draw in the Copa del Rey? Understanding the rules of this knockout tournament is crucial for fans, bettors, and analysts alike. Unlike traditional league formats where points are awarded for draws, cup competitions like the Copa del Rey require a definitive winner in most rounds.

This guide will explore what occurs when a match ends in a tie at different stages of the tournament, from the early rounds to the final. We’ll also cover historical moments, rule changes, and how extra time and penalties play a role in determining the winner.

Understanding Copa del Rey Rules for Drawn Matches

The Copa del Rey follows a knockout format, meaning teams must progress by eliminating their opponents in each round. But when a match ends in a draw, specific rules apply depending on the stage of the competition.

Early Rounds: One-Leg Format

Since the 2019-20 season, the early rounds of the Copa del Rey have been played as single-leg fixtures. This means that if a match ends in a draw after 90 minutes:

• The game goes into extra time (30 minutes split into two halves).
• If the score remains level, the winner is decided by a penalty shootout.

This rule ensures that there is always a clear winner in these knockout games, making every match high-stakes and unpredictable.

What Happens If There Is a Draw in the Copa del Rey During Later Rounds?

As the tournament progresses, some matches follow a different structure:

Round of 16, Quarterfinals, and Semifinals

• In recent years, these rounds have mostly been played as one-leg fixtures like the early rounds.
• If the match ends in a draw after regular time, extra time and then penalties decide the winner.

The Semifinals: Two-Leg Format

• Unlike other rounds, the semifinals are played over two legs (home and away matches).
• If the aggregate score is level after both matches, the second leg goes into extra time.
• If still tied, the match is decided by a penalty shootout.
• Away goals do NOT count as a tiebreaker since the rule was removed in 2021.

What Happens If There Is a Draw in the Copa del Rey Final?

The Copa del Rey final is a high-stakes, one-off match played at a neutral venue. If the final ends in a draw after 90 minutes:

1. Extra time (two 15-minute halves) is played.
2. If still tied, a penalty shootout determines the champion.

This format ensures that a winner is crowned on the same day, preventing the need for replays.

Famous Drawn Matches in Copa del Rey History

Barcelona vs. Athletic Club (2015 Final)

One of the most memorable Copa del Rey finals was the 2015 showdown between Barcelona and Athletic Club. Though Barcelona won 3-1, the match was intense, and a drawn scoreline seemed possible at several points. Had it ended in a draw, it would have followed the extra-time and penalties format.

Real Madrid vs. Atlético Madrid (2013 Final)

This Madrid derby ended 1-1 in normal time before Atlético Madrid secured a 2-1 victory in extra time. It was one of the most dramatic Copa del Rey final draws in recent memory.

How Do Draws Affect Copa del Rey Betting?

For sports bettors, understanding what happens if there is a draw in the Copa del Rey is crucial. Since knockout rounds must produce a winner, betting options often include:

• Full-time draw & extra-time result: Bettors can predict if the game will be tied after 90 minutes but have a winner in extra time.
• Draw & penalty shootout winner: Some bookmakers offer odds on whether the match will go to penalties.
• Match-winner (including extra time & penalties): Instead of betting on a draw, some prefer to bet on which team will ultimately advance.

This knowledge helps bettors make informed decisions and avoid confusion when placing wagers.

FAQ: What Happens If There Is a Draw in the Copa del Rey?

1. Can a Copa del Rey match end in a draw?

No. Every match must have a winner, either in regular time, extra time, or penalties.

2. What happens if a match is tied after 90 minutes?

• In single-leg matches, extra time is played.
• If still tied, penalties decide the winner.
• In two-leg semifinals, the second leg goes to extra time if the aggregate score is tied.

3. Do away goals count in the Copa del Rey?

No. The away goals rule was abolished in 2021. If teams are level after two legs in the semifinals, the match goes to extra time and then penalties if needed.

4. How does the final work if it ends in a draw?

The Copa del Rey final follows the same rules: extra time is played, followed by a penalty shootout if necessary.

5. Has a Copa del Rey final ever been decided on penalties?

Yes. Several finals have gone to penalties, with teams like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid involved in dramatic shootouts over the years.

Conclusion: The Importance of Understanding Copa del Rey Draw Rules

Understanding what happens if there is a draw in the Copa del Rey is essential for fans, analysts, and bettors. Since the tournament does not allow for drawn results, knowing how extra time and penalties work can add to the excitement of each match. Whether watching your favorite team or placing a bet, being aware of these rules enhances the experience of Spain’s most thrilling cup competition.

For more details on Copa del Rey rules and fixtures, visit RFEF Official Site.

Wiki Data Table: What Happens If There Is a Draw in the Copa del Rey?