FC Barcelona kicked off their 2025 campaign with determination, facing UD Barbastro in the Copa del Rey Round of 32 on January 4, 2025. The clash was significant not only for the footballing stakes but also as it marked the same stage where the two teams met last year, with Barcelona narrowly escaping elimination.
The previous year’s encounter had served as a wake-up call for Barcelona, edging past the fourth-tier Barbastro with just a 3-2 victory, highlighted by Robert Lewandowski’s late penalty. Back then, the match showcased the unpredictable nature of the Copa del Rey—known for its potential for shocking upsets.
This time around, Barcelona entered the matchup following disheartening results, including back-to-back losses to Leganés and Atlético Madrid, leaving them searching for redemption. Manager Hansi Flick emphasized the importance of returning to winning ways, saying, "Things are as they are; we have to accept them, we are professionals. I am concentrating on football and training. We have confidence in the club. I am always positive, but we have to wait for the decision." His words underscored the resolve needed from his players to overcome recent struggles.
To heighten the stakes, Flick had to contend with injuries and absences within the squad. Key players like Marc-André ter Stegen, Marc Bernal, and Andreas Christensen remained sidelined. Dani Olmo and Pau Victor were also absent as they awaited registration issues to be resolved. Noting the absence of Lamine Yamal and Brazilian winger Raphinha—who was rested—Flick confirmed, “Even though they are fit, we're opting for caution.” This created opportunities for youngsters, particularly Pablo Torre and Ronald Araujo, both eager to make their presence felt.
Meanwhile, UD Barbastro, struggling at 16th place in the RFEF Segunda Division after suffering five straight losses before this game, saw this match as the high point of their season. Given their history, the team had every reason to regard this encounter with Barcelona as a golden opportunity to create another Cup upset. Their previous triumph over Espanyol, coupled with Barcelona’s turbulent form, was enough motivation to fuel their aspirations of glory.
Kickoff at the Estadio Municipal de Deportes set the stage for what was anticipated to be more than just another game. Fans filled the stands, nostalgic about last season's encounter, and anticipating the potential for excitement. Indeed, this year's Copa del Rey encounter proved to be no exception.
Barcelona came out strong, hoping to build confidence by scoring early, as they noted the necessity of establishing control over the game. They created a flurry of chances and within 21 minutes took the lead as Frenkie de Jong's cross set up Eric García for the opening goal. Following the early strike, momentum favored the Catalans, highlighting their class as the top-flight team and asserting their dominance early on.
Lewandowski doubled the lead shortly thereafter, showcasing the experience and quality he brought to the forefront. The capacity of Barcelona’s roster surged with Torre supporting Lewandowski for another goal right out of halftime. The Blaugrana maintained their composure throughout, reflecting Flick's tactical vision, treating the match carefully and aiming for total dominance.
By the final whistle, Barcelona emerged 4-0 victors, as Pablo Torre sealed their commanding win with another goal after Barbastro's goalkeeper made a significant error. Their comprehensive victory not only allowed them passage to the next round but also offered much-needed relief after weeks of disappointing performances.
Barcelona's convincing win reinstated their confidence—a much-needed morale booster as they prepared for subsequent games spanning various competitions. Prospects grew brighter as the team now looked forward to retaining their Copa del Rey prominence, aiming for their record 32nd title.
This match may have started their year off positively, but with their league standings compromised and the imminent challenge of the Spanish Super Cup on the horizon, the road to recovery was just beginning. Hansi Flick's hopes rested heavily on sustaining the momentum gained from this resounding victory as they prepared for the battles yet to come.
Barbastro, for their part, showcased the challenges lower-tier teams face when confronting giants like Barcelona, reminding everyone of the unpredictability and excitement inherent to the Copa del Rey. The spirit of competition remains strong, even for those at the bottom of the pyramid, as they strive for memorable moments against the giants.