Dani Alves Video: Watch Barca Star's Amazing Goal vs. Real Madrid

Right place met right time as right-back Dani Alves hit home the wonder goal of the night's Copa del Rey. 

Los Blancos were already back on their heels heading into the final minute of the first half when a set piece saw the ball ricochet to a breaking Dani Alves, who kicked a brilliant ball that Iker Casillas could do little but admire. 

The first half of the Copa del Rey was relatively drab when you consider what took place in the waning moments before intermission. 

Two prize fighters were feeling out one another in an all-important match at the Camp Nou. There had been controversy and hard hits, but nothing like what took place right before the sides took to the dressing rooms. 

With the score tied 0-0, things got Messi when the star midfielder broke down the Real Madrid defense and passed off to Pedro on his left. Pedro didn't waste the occasion and hit home the game's first goal. 

Emotions were raised just enough for the next set of circumstances to take place. Lassana Diarra took down Lionel Messi on the left side of the box, invoking a set piece. 

The ensuing kick into the box ricocheted out towards Dani Alves, who was unmarked and left to his own devices. As we all know, an open Alves is a dangerous one. 

In one of the oddest moments of the match, time stood still as the players all turned to watch Alves take what was, in a sense, a free kick. 

He banged home a ball that was never questioned from the time it left his right foot. The adage "hit it where they ain't" rang true as the ball drifted through an area of the pitch that not one person could influence, not even Iker Casillas, whose outstretched arm did nothing to affect the ball. 

No matter your loyalties, you have to come away muttering, "Simply amazing."

The match would then see a spirited Real Madrid break from the dressing rooms at the half. Cristiano Ronaldo and Benzema would both finish with goals apiece, but the last second heroics fell short. 

The Copa del Rey ended in a 2-2 draw, and Barca continues on aggregate. Alves golazo wan't only amazing, it turned out to be sorely needed. 

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