Mbappe out of Real Madrid starting XI for Copa del Rey final against Barcelona

SEVILLE, Spain (AP) — Kylian Mbappé did the best he could to try and win a title with Real Madrid but fell short again in a 3-2 extra-time loss to archrival Barcelona in Saturday’s Copa del Rey final.

Mbappé, who started on the bench after being sidelined with an ankle injury, sparked Madrid as a half-time substitute. The France striker earned and scored a free kick in the 70th minute to equalize. Madrid went ahead 2-1 soon after, only to see Barcelona rally for a third clasico victory this season.

Mbappé hasn’t played a full match since hurting his right ankle in a second-leg loss to Arsenal in the Champions League quarterfinals 10 days ago. He missed a La Liga game due to suspension and then was rested over the weekend, but it was still a mild surprise when he wasn't included in the starting 11 for the clasico with a trophy at stake.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti said the selection was a matter of fitness for Mbappé.

“He wasn't up to playing 90 minutes, and I preferred to have him in the second half when the rhythm of the game drops a bit,” Ancelotti said. “He played well and scored a goal.”

Barcelona was also without its top scorer after Robert Lewandowski sustained a left thigh injury last weekend. Ferran Torres started in his place and the equalizer that forced extra time.

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