Barcelona will visit Estadio Carlos Belmonte on Tuesday for a Copa del Rey quarterfinal that embodies the romance of cup competition. The Catalan giants face an Albacete side still basking in the afterglow of their stunning elimination of Real Madrid, a result that has transformed the modest second-division club into the tournament's most compelling story.
The hosts' achievement in the previous round cannot be exaggerated. Albacete, absent from La Liga for more than two decades, delivered one of the most memorable performances in their history by defeating the 15-time European champions 3-2. That victory served notice that they are no mere participants but genuine giant-killers capable of competing with Spanish football's elite. Now they welcome the most successful club in Copa del Rey history, a Barcelona team that has lifted the trophy 32 times and stands as the reigning champion.
Barcelona's Historical Burden
The Blaugrana claimed last season's title with a 3-2 victory over Real Madrid in the final, but they now confront a historical anomaly. No team has successfully defended the Copa del Rey since Barcelona's own four-year monopoly from 2015 to 2018. This fact looms large as Hansi Flick's men attempt to balance their cup ambitions with a congested schedule across multiple competitions.
Their progression to this stage has been efficient if unspectacular. A 2-0 victory over Racing Santander, the Segunda División leaders, in the round of 16 demonstrated their professionalism against lower-league opposition. That performance will need to be replicated, if not improved upon, against an Albacete side riding a wave of momentum.
Albacete's Momentum and Cup Heritage
Since toppling Madrid, Albacete has carried that confidence into league play, securing three consecutive wins in the Segunda División. While they occupy a mid-table position, these results have virtually eliminated any relegation concerns, freeing them to focus entirely on their cup adventure. A triumph on Tuesday would equal their deepest Copa del Rey run since 1994-95, when they last reached the semifinals.
Their cup credentials have been earned through genuine quality. The victory over Celta Vigo in the round of 32 proved they could systematically dismantle top-flight opposition. This is not a team that relies solely on luck or defensive stubbornness; they possess the tactical discipline and attacking threat to punish any complacency.
Betancor: The Unlikely Hero
Jefté Betancor has emerged as the symbol of Albacete's cup run. The striker's two goals against Real Madrid cemented his place in club legend, and his continued scoring form—including a goal in Saturday's win over Real Zaragoza—has made him undroppable. Having started on the bench against Madrid, Betancor will lead the line from the opening whistle against Barcelona.
The home side's injury situation remains manageable. Manager Alberto González has ruled out Pepe Sánchez, who made his mark as a substitute against Madrid, while Higinio Marín battles a thigh injury that makes him doubtful. These setbacks, while inconvenient, have not disrupted the overall optimism permeating the squad.
Flick's Rotation Calculations
Hansi Flick confronts a familiar dilemma for elite managers: how to respect the competition while protecting his key players from burnout. The previous round required a strong lineup, but Tuesday's fixture offers a chance for strategic rotation without sacrificing quality.
Lamine Yamal's explosive start to 2025 has established him as one of Europe's most exciting talents, but the 17-year-old prodigy is expected to be rested. Roony Bardghji stands ready to deputize on the right wing, while the left flank may feature Marcus Rashford covering for the injured Raphinha.
The Brazilian's adductor strain adds him to an injury list that already includes Pedri, Gavi, and Andreas Christensen. The silver lining is that Raphinha's absence is projected to be brief, minimizing long-term disruption. Barcelona's squad depth will be thoroughly examined, but reinforcements are available.
João Cancelo, Gerard Martín, and emerging talent Marc Bernal all offer viable alternatives across the defensive and midfield lines. Flick's challenge is to integrate these players seamlessly while maintaining the tactical cohesion that defines Barcelona's play.
Probable Tactical Approaches
Albacete will likely employ their trusted 4-4-2 system, prioritizing defensive solidity and quick transitions. The predicted eleven features Bernabé Barragán in goal, shielded by defenders Alberto Jiménez, Bernardo Cruz, Maikel Mesa, and Diego González. The midfield engine room should comprise Manu Fuster, Jonathan Dubasin, Juanma García, and Javi Rueda, balancing work rate with technical ability. The Betancor-Maikel Mesa strike partnership provides physicality and predatory instincts.
Barcelona will adhere to their possession-based philosophy, attempting to stretch Albacete's compact shape through lateral movement and intelligent positioning. A rotated lineup might include Iñaki Peña as goalkeeper, with Jules Koundé, Pau Cubarsí, Iñigo Martínez, and Alejandro Balde forming a refreshed back four. Frenkie de Jong could anchor midfield alongside Fermín López and possibly Gavi if declared fit. The forward line may feature Bardghji, Robert Lewandowski, and Rashford—a blend of youth, experience, and versatility.
Stakes Beyond the Scoreline
The implications extend far beyond a simple quarterfinal result. For Albacete, this represents a chance to validate their Madrid victory and prove they can consistently perform at this level. The financial windfall and prestige associated with a semifinal appearance would be transformative for the club's future.
Barcelona, meanwhile, must demonstrate their ability to manage multiple objectives simultaneously. Success in the Copa del Rey while rotating stars would signal their readiness for the season's decisive months. Failure to take Albacete seriously could result in a humiliating exit that would overshadow their broader ambitions.
Global Broadcast Details
International audiences can witness the drama through various platforms. American viewers have access via ESPN Select, fuboTV, and the ESPN App. The United Kingdom audience can watch on Premier Sports 1 and Premier Sports Player, while Mexican supporters can follow through Sky Sports Mexico, Sky+, and izzi.
The Magic of the Cup
What makes this fixture so compelling is the narrative tension. Albacete has already authored one miraculous chapter; they believe another is possible. Barcelona carries the weight of expectation and history, knowing that anything less than professionalism could lead to embarrassment.
The Copa del Rey has always been a competition where hierarchy can be temporarily suspended, where passion and organization can neutralize superior talent. Albacete embodies this spirit perfectly. Barcelona represents the establishment, the benchmark against which all others measure themselves.
As kickoff approaches, the football world anticipates a fascinating contest. Will Barcelona's class and depth prove decisive, or can Albacete conjure another evening of magic? The answer will unfold under the lights in Castilla-La Mancha, where dreams and reality collide in the most beautiful way possible.