Madrid, Spain – Barcelona cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final on Friday to end Pep Guardiola's reign as manager on a high note.
Guardiola announced that the 2011-12 season would be his last as boss of the Catalan club, but Pedro and Lionel Messi ensured that it did not come to an end without one more piece of silverware.
Pedro scored twice in the opening period while Messi chipped in with his 73rd goal in all competitions this season, lifting Barcelona to its 14th trophy since Guardiola took charge of the club in 2008.
The Catalans opened the scoring in the third minute when Pedro swept a loose ball into the back of the net from close range.
Messi doubled the advantage in the 20th minute, slotting home Andres Iniesta's low cross from a tough angle.
Barcelona went three goals up just five minutes later when Pedro completed his brace. The Spaniard took a lay-off from Xavi and curled a first-time effort into the far side of Bilbao's net.
Guardiola's side looked destined for a patented scoring rout, but a tame second half saw Barcelona claim the title with a 3-0 win.
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