Burgos Look to Shock Valencia in High Stakes Copa del Rey Last 16 Clash

5 Min Read

Burgos have already defied expectations in this season’s Copa del Rey, and few would have predicted their journey continuing beyond the early rounds after needing extra-time winners in the 116th minute to squeeze past Atletico Tordesillas and Real Zaragoza.

Yet, when Getafe arrived at El Plantío, the Segunda Division side produced their most impressive display of the campaign.

- Advertisement -

Despite falling behind, Burgos showed remarkable composure to overturn the deficit and secure a 3-1 comeback win against top-flight opposition.

David González Ballesteros pulled the hosts level before Íñigo Córdoba struck twice after the break to seal a famous victory. That result matched Burgos’ best-ever showing in the competition, marking just their second appearance in the round of 16 since the 1972–73 season.

- Advertisement -
Hugo Duro Celebrating his Goal (Photo Credit: Valencia via X)
Hugo Duro Celebrating his Goal (Photo Credit: Valencia via X)

Confidence received another boost at the weekend as Luis Miguel Ramis’ men edged Eibar 1-0 to snap a brief two-game winless run.

Sitting eighth in the Segunda Division and just two points shy of the playoff places, Burgos have also turned El Plantío into a difficult venue, remaining unbeaten in their last three home matches across all competitions. With momentum building, another upset would not be entirely out of the question.

- Advertisement -

Valencia, by contrast, arrive in Burgos still searching for consistency. The eight-time Copa del Rey winners currently sit 18th in La Liga, one point adrift of safety, and are without a league victory in six matches.

Their most recent outing ended in a 1-1 draw against Elche, where Pepelu’s late equaliser rescued a point in a performance that once again highlighted their struggles.

Watch highlight below;

Those domestic issues stand in contrast to a steadier cup run. Valencia navigated past Cartagena and Maracena before claiming a 2-0 win over Sporting Gijón in December.

Watch highlight below;

However, that victory remains their only regulation-time success in their last eight matches across all competitions. Away form is also a concern, with three defeats in their last six trips, something Carlos Corberán will be keen to address as his side chase a fourth quarter-final appearance in five seasons.

Recent outings against top opposition suggest Valencia can still raise their game when it matters. That was evident despite defeat when Griezmann found the net in Atlético Madrid’s 2–1 La Liga win over Los Che, and again in a show of character as Hugo Duro’s late strike earned Valencia a dramatic draw against Sevilla.

The club have also confirmed their focus on this fixture, posting on their X handle that the team are already preparing for the upcoming Copa del Rey clash against Burgos CF quoting;

The team are already preparing for the upcoming Copa del Rey clash against Burgos CF

Team News

Burgos are close to full strength for Thursday’s contest, though Kevin Appin remains a doubt after missing the last four matches through injury.

Alex Lizancos returns after serving a one-game suspension, while Íñigo Córdoba will once again be a key figure following his brace against Getafe and match-winning contribution last time out.

Valencia training ahead of the next game. (photo credit: valencia via x)
Valencia training ahead of the next game. (photo credit: valencia via x)

Valencia may be without Thierry Correia, who is a doubt after being forced off against Elche. Mouctar Diakhaby and goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala remain sidelined with muscle injuries, leaving Stole Dimitrievski set to continue in goal.

Dani Raba could return to the starting XI after being unused in recent games, while Lucas Beltrán is expected to lead the line, with Umar Sadiq also an option.

Possible Lineups

Burgos:
Ruiz; Lizancos, A. Córdoba, Grego, Miguel; I. Córdoba, Atienza, Cantero, D. González; Niño, M. González

Valencia:
Dimitrievski; Foulquier, Tárrega, Copete, Vázquez; Pepelu, Guerra; López, Raba, Ramazani; Beltrán

Prediction

Burgos have already proven they are capable of upsetting the odds and should make life uncomfortable for their visitors. However, Valencia’s experience and pedigree in the Copa del Rey could ultimately be decisive, with the La Liga side backed to edge a tight contest and book a place in the quarter-finals.

Where to watch

RegionBroadcaster
United StatesESPN+, ESPN App
SpainMovistar Copa del Rey,DAZN Spain.
EcuadorEl Canal del Fútbol, El Canal del Fútbol app.
CaribbeanFlow Sports 2 Caribbean.
Official Club CoverageValencia CF website and app.

TAGGED:
Leave a review

Leave a Review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *