Albacete are enjoying a historic Copa del Rey run and will welcome Barcelona to the Estadio Carlos Belmonte full of belief after already toppling La Liga opposition on their way to the quarter-finals. Victories over Celta Vigo and, most impressively, Real Madrid have propelled the Segunda División side into their first Copa del Rey quarter-final since the 94/95 season, Softfootball reports.
Their dramatic first-ever win over Real Madrid in 15 attempts has been widely regarded within the club as a turning point, and that confidence has translated into domestic form, with Albacete recording three consecutive clean-sheet league victories since that famous night.
Home advantage could be crucial once again. Albacete have won four of their last five home games across all competitions, losing just once in that run, and the atmosphere at a sold-out Carlos Belmonte is expected to be electric. With promotion ambitions firmly back on track and nothing to lose against elite opposition, the hosts will look to remain compact, frustrate Barcelona, and strike when opportunities arise.
Barcelona arrive in Castilla-La Mancha in formidable form, continuing to juggle a packed schedule across multiple competitions with remarkable consistency. Despite a demanding January that has seen them play nine matches in four different tournaments, the Blaugrana have won 15 of their last 16 games in all competitions.
Their Copa del Rey campaign has been controlled and professional, with consecutive 2-0 away victories against Guadalajara and Racing Santander secured through second-half goals.
While Barcelona’s recent La Liga win over Elche highlighted their ability to grow into games rather than dominate from the outset, their overall momentum remains strong. That said, the road has proven slightly more challenging for the Catalans, with each of their last four competitive defeats coming away from home. Even so, their experience, depth, and knack for decisive second-half performances should stand them in good stead as they look to avoid another Copa del Rey upset.
Team News
Albacete are hopeful that defender Pepe Sánchez will be available after missing their weekend league fixture with a knock, which would be a boost to their defensive stability. No other major injury concerns have been reported for the hosts.
Ahead of the game tomorrow, Barcelona shared via its official X handle an exclusive video of Lamine Yamal during its training session as they prepare for their quarter final clash Tomorrow. They posted:
Barcelona may consider rotating their squad once again, with Raphinha a possible doubt after being forced off at half-time during the win over Elche. Squad management could be key given the volume of matches they’ve played in recent weeks.
Possible Lineups
Albacete possible starting lineup:
Raul Lizoain; Aguado, Moreno, Neva, Gomez; Capi, Pacheco, Villar, Melendez; Betancor, Medina
Barcelona possible starting lineup:
Garcia; Balde, Garcia, Cubarsi, Kounde; Lopez, Bernal, Olmo; Rashford, Torres, Yamal
SoftFootball Prediction
Albacete’s cup run has already surpassed expectations, and their home form suggests they can make life uncomfortable for Barcelona, particularly in the early stages. However, Barça’s experience, depth, and strong second-half record in this competition may ultimately prove decisive.
Expect a competitive encounter, but Barcelona’s ability to control games late on should see them edge through to the semi-finals.
Prediction: Albacete 0-2 Barcelona
