The Copa del Rey returns with an exciting clash as Barbastro vs Barcelona takes center stage. Fourth-tier side Barbastro will look to script history by defeating the record 31-time champions, Barcelona, in the round of 32. While the hosts have shown resilience in their campaign, the Catalan giants are expected to dominate. Here’s a detailed preview, team news, and prediction for this intriguing fixture.
Barbastro vs Barcelona: Team Form and Momentum
Barbastro has been a surprise package in this season’s Copa del Rey. They kicked off their campaign with a 4-0 thrashing of SD Amorebieta, followed by a stunning 2-0 victory over La Liga side Espanyol. These results have boosted their confidence, but facing Barcelona is a monumental challenge.
On the other hand, Barcelona has struggled for consistency recently, winning only one of their last four matches across all competitions. Despite their dip in form, Hansi Flick’s side boasts superior firepower and experience, making them heavy favorites to advance.
🏆 The Copa del Rey is back on Saturday pic.twitter.com/zMAHSr4ebM
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 3, 2025
Barbastro’s Tactics and Probable Lineup
Barbastro is expected to deploy a 3-4-3 formation to counter Barcelona’s attacking threat. Arnau Fàbrega Mañas will start in goal, shielded by a back three of Israel García Moreno, Óscar Arroyo, and Daniel Santigosa Funes. Wing-backs Hugo Bautista Jiménez and Andrés Barrera Baigorri will provide width, while Javito and Jaime Ara Sauco anchor the midfield.
In attack, Marc Prat will lead the line, supported by Javier Albin and Ander El Haddadi on the flanks. Their strategy will likely focus on defensive solidity and quick counterattacks.
Predicted Lineup (3-4-3):
Forwards: El Haddadi, Prat, Albin
Goalkeeper: Fabrega
Defenders: Israel Garcia, Arroyo, Santigosa
Midfielders: Bautista, Javito, Jaime, Barrera
Barcelona’s Team News and Expected Setup
Barcelona will be without key players like Andreas Christensen, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Lamine Yamal. However, Hansi Flick is expected to rotate his squad, giving opportunities to fringe players. The visitors will likely line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Wojciech Szczesny making his debut in goal.
Jules Kounde and Gerard Martin will operate as full-backs, while Ronald Araujo partners Eric Garcia in central defense. Frenkie de Jong and Pablo Torre will control the midfield, with Gavi as the attacking midfielder. Ansu Fati and Fermin Lopez will provide width, while Ferran Torres leads the attack.
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Striker: Torres
Goalkeeper: Szczesny
Defenders: Kounde, Araujo, Eric Garcia, Martin
Defensive Midfielders: de Jong, Torre
Attacking Midfielders: Fati, Gavi, Fermin Lopez
Key Stats Ahead of Barbastro vs Barcelona
- This is only the second meeting between Barbastro and Barcelona.
- Barbastro has won four of their last five home games in all competitions.
- Barcelona has scored 51 goals this season, the highest in La Liga.
- The Catalan giants have never lost their Copa del Rey opener since the 2004-05 season.
- Barcelona has collected the most away points (23) in La Liga this campaign.
Barbastro vs Barcelona: Prediction
Despite Barbastro’s impressive run, the gulf in quality between the two sides is undeniable. Barcelona’s superior squad depth and attacking prowess should see them through comfortably. While the hosts may put up a spirited fight, the Catalan giants are expected to dominate.
Final Prediction: Barbastro 0-3 Barcelona
