In a highly anticipated showdown, FC Barcelona is set to clash with Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final on April 26, 2025, at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville. This match, often referred to as El Clasico, marks the 121st edition of the prestigious tournament, with both teams vying for glory.
Barcelona enters the final as the leader of La Liga, aiming for their 32nd Copa del Rey title. However, they will face significant challenges, including the absence of star striker Robert Lewandowski, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained in a recent match against Celta Vigo. Coach Hans Flick will also be without Alejandro Balde and Marc Casadó, adding to the team's woes.
On the other hand, Real Madrid is looking to reclaim some pride after a disappointing season that saw them eliminated from the Champions League in the quarter-finals and trailing Barcelona by four points in La Liga. Despite these setbacks, the team hopes to find redemption in the Copa del Rey. Kylian Mbappe's participation remains uncertain due to an ankle injury, which could further complicate Real's attacking options.
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, the stakes couldn't be higher. Marca noted that expectations for Barcelona have exceeded predictions this season, while Real Madrid's performance has fallen short. "The project under Hansi Flick has been significantly better than expected," the publication stated, contrasting it with the disappointment surrounding Real Madrid.
The last time these two giants met in a Copa del Rey final was in the 2013/2014 season, where Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 2:1 win. Historically, Barcelona holds the upper hand in this tournament, having won it 31 times, while Real Madrid has claimed it 20 times.
In terms of lineups, Barcelona is expected to field Wojciech Szczęsny in goal, supported by a defensive line including Jules Kounde, Araujo, and Martinez. The midfield will feature Frenkie de Jong, Olmo, and Raphinha, while Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal are set to lead the attack.
Real Madrid, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, will likely deploy Thibaut Courtois in goal, with a defensive setup that includes Lucas, Asencio, and Rudiger. The midfield will see Tchouameni, Ceballos, and Bellingham, while Vinicius Junior and potentially Mbappe will spearhead the attack.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 22:00 local time, and fans can catch the live broadcast on TVP 1 and TVP Sport. For those looking to stream the game online, options include Pilot WP and sport.tvp.pl, with minute-by-minute updates available on WP SportoweFakty.
Betting odds reflect Barcelona as the favorites, with Superbet offering odds of 2.20 for a Barcelona win, compared to 3.05 for Real Madrid and 3.75 for a draw. Additionally, Superbet has introduced a special promotion for new players, offering a bonus of 400 PLN for a goal scored by Barcelona during the match.
As the teams gear up for this gripping encounter, the question remains: can Barcelona continue their dominance over Real Madrid, or will the latter find a way to turn the tide? With both sides missing key players, the final promises to be a thrilling spectacle that fans won't want to miss.
In conclusion, the Copa del Rey final between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid is poised to be an electrifying event, showcasing the rich history and fierce rivalry between these two footballing powerhouses. As the clock ticks down to kickoff, anticipation builds for what is sure to be another unforgettable chapter in the saga of El Clasico.
