Barcelona and Real Madrid will go head-to-head today in the highly anticipated final of the 2025 Copa del Rey, a match that promises to be another thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry known as El Clásico. The clash is set to take place at the Estadio La Cartuja in Seville, with kick-off scheduled for 9pm BST (4pm ET). Millions of fans around the globe are gearing up to witness this monumental showdown.
As the two giants of Spanish football prepare to face off, both teams come into the match with a mix of confidence and urgency. Barcelona, under the guidance of manager Hansi Flick, are looking to lift the Copa del Rey trophy for the first time since 2021. Their journey to the final has been impressive, featuring a series of dominant performances, including a remarkable 5-4 aggregate victory over Atlético Madrid in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, are equally eager to capture silverware after a season that has seen them struggle in the league. They edged past Real Sociedad with a 5-4 aggregate score in their semi-final, and are determined to reclaim their status as a top contender in Spanish football.
This match marks the third El Clásico of the current season, with Barcelona having triumphed in both previous encounters—4-0 in La Liga and 5-2 in the Supercopa de España final. The stakes are high, with both teams looking to assert dominance not only in this match but also in the ongoing La Liga title race, where Barcelona currently leads by four points.
In terms of team news, Barcelona has been dealt a significant blow with the absence of star striker Robert Lewandowski, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury. His absence will put additional pressure on Ferran Torres, who has been in fine form and is expected to lead the line for the Catalan club. In contrast, Real Madrid appears to be bolstered by the return of Kylian Mbappé, who has been declared fit after recovering from an ankle injury sustained in a recent Champions League match against Arsenal.
Flick expressed his excitement ahead of the final, stating, “We have to enjoy it and give it our all too. We have to fight. We started a journey at the beginning of the season and we have the chance to win three titles: that’s our goal.” He emphasized the importance of fair play and respect for referees, taking a subtle jab at Real Madrid's recent conduct regarding officiating.
As the match approaches, the atmosphere in Seville is electric. The Estadio La Cartuja has undergone renovations, increasing its capacity to accommodate 70,000 fans, and the anticipation is palpable among supporters of both clubs. This final is particularly significant as it is the first Copa del Rey showdown between these two teams in 11 years, with their last meeting in the cup final dating back to 2014.
Historically, Barcelona holds the record for the most Copa del Rey titles, boasting 31 championships, while Real Madrid has claimed the trophy 20 times. The last time these teams met in a Copa del Rey final, Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, thanks to a stunning goal from Gareth Bale. The stakes are higher than ever, as both teams vie for not just the trophy, but also bragging rights in one of sports' fiercest rivalries.
Fans across various regions can catch the match via multiple broadcasting options. In Spain, the game will be available for free on RTVE, while viewers in the UK can tune in on Premier Sports. In the US, ESPN+ will stream the match live, ensuring that fans can follow every moment of this thrilling encounter.
As the players take to the pitch, all eyes will be on the tactical battle between Flick and Ancelotti. Barcelona's high-pressing style has caused problems for Madrid in previous encounters, but Ancelotti's side boasts a wealth of attacking talent that can exploit any defensive lapses. With Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Bellingham leading the charge for Madrid, they will be looking to capitalize on any opportunities that arise.
With the match just moments away, the excitement is palpable. Will Barcelona continue their dominance over their rivals, or will Real Madrid find a way to turn the tide in their favor? One thing is for sure: this Copa del Rey final is set to deliver drama, passion, and unforgettable moments that will be etched in the annals of football history.
The stage is set, the players are ready, and the world is watching. Let the battle for the Copa del Rey begin!
