As the sun sets over Seville, two of football’s most storied rivals, Barcelona and Real Madrid, are poised to clash in the prestigious Copa del Rey final this Saturday. With Barcelona riding high after a triumphant season and Real Madrid seeking redemption, this matchup promises drama and intensity worthy of El Clasico.
Barcelona, under the shrewd guidance of Hansi Flick, have dominated Real Madrid this season. After a 4-0 crushing in La Liga at the Bernabeu and a 5-2 victory in the Spanish Super Cup, the Catalan giants are looking to complete a hat-trick of wins against Carlo Ancelotti's men.
Currently holding the top spot in the La Liga table, Barcelona are four points clear of Real, who will have another chance to cut that gap when they meet in the league again in May. Having pushed through to the Champions League semifinals, Barcelona seem to be back in their rightful place among Europe’s elite, showcasing Flick’s tactical brilliance.
Real Madrid, however, are reeling from a Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal and aware that a victory here could reignite their season. Despite injury setbacks, their defense has steadied lately with back-to-back La Liga clean sheets.
The Copa del Rey offers a psychological edge, and potentially a league and cup double, if Ancelotti’s side can harness their attacking firepower led by Kylian Mbappe, who is primed for a standout performance.
Barcelona face their own challenges with top scorer Robert Lewandowski sidelined by injury. Yet, with Raphinha delivering stellar performances and promising talents like Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal eager to shine, Barça’s attack remains formidable.
Kick-off is set for 4pm ET at Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville, with a pulsating encounter on ESPN Deportes and ESPN+.
As the final approaches, both teams are well aware of the stakes. For Real, it’s about proving they still belong in the conversation as champions. For Barça, it’s an opportunity to cement their resurgence and outclass their eternal rivals once more.
Predicted Lineups
Barcelona
- Szczesny
- Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Martin
- De Jong, Pedri
- Yamal, Lopez, Raphinha
- Torres
Real Madrid
- Courtois
- Vazquez, Rudiger, Asencio, Garcia
- Valverde, Tchouameni
- Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Junior
- Mbappe
