The mighty Barcelona, hungry for Copa del Rey glory, embark on a journey to the remote town of Barbastro, home to a team of a contrasting stature. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Aragonese Pyrenees, Barbastro FC, a spirited underdog, awaits, nestled within the fourth tier of Spanish football: the Segunda Federación – Group 2.
Despite their apparent disadvantage, the Barbastro faithful harbor dreams of another giant slaying. Having already dethroned La Liga’s Almeria in the previous round, they approach this clash with Barcelona with the echoes of triumph still ringing in their ears. However, the Blaugrana, armed with their illustrious history and a squad adorned with superstars, stand as a formidable obstacle.
UD Barbastro v Barcelona H2H
Unprecedented excitement fills the air as Barbastro, riding a five-game unbeaten streak and a fortress-like home defense with six consecutive clean sheets, prepares for its first-ever encounter with the mighty Barcelona. The Blaugrana, despite a stellar away record in the Copa del Rey (five wins in six), have struggled on the road recently in all competitions (W1, D2, L2). Can Barbastro capitalize on home advantage and upset the giants, or will Barca’s Copa del Rey pedigree prevail?
UD Barbastro v Barcelona Form
Barbastro on a positive run:
- Entering the match in high spirits, Barbastro enjoyed an unbeaten December across all competitions.
- Their defensive solidity is impressive, with four clean sheets in those December games.
- Copa del Rey success has come at home for Barbastro, with both their wins this season on familiar turf.
- A packed Estadio Municipal will provide a fervent backdrop for the clash, bolstering the hosts’ confidence.
Familiar face seeks to shine:
- Adrià de Mesa, a former Barcelona youth player, scored in Barbastro’s first-round Copa del Rey victory.
- Facing his former club, de Mesa will be eager to impress against familiar faces.
Barcelona seeking away consistency:
- Barcelona arrived unbeaten in their last three games, including back-to-back wins.
- However, away form remains a concern, with just one win in their last five away matches.
- A 2-1 La Liga win over Las Palmas on Thursday offers a positive omen for the Blaugrana.
Overall, the stage is set for an intriguing encounter between a confident Barbastro side and a Barcelona team seeking to extend their unbeaten run and establish away form.
UD Barbastro v Barcelona Team News
Head coach Martinez looks set to stick with the winning formula that saw them past Almeria in the previous round. Leading scorer Adria de Mesa (4 goals this season) spearheads the attack, flanked by Oscar Gonpi and Hugo Bautista. Midfield stalwarts Javito and Kike Rausell are also expected to start against the mighty Barcelona.
Barcelona looking to rotate and rest:
Injuries and upcoming Super Cup commitments mean Xavi will shuffle his squad for the Copa del Rey clash. Youngsters Hector Fort and Vitor Roque could be in line for first-team debuts, while experienced heads like Andreas Christensen, Joao Felix, and Lamine Yamal are likely to start. Look out for a cameo appearance from 16-year-old Pau Cubarsi as well.
Prediction
While Barcelona haven’t been in top form lately, their Copa del Rey run might offer some consistency. Predicting a straightforward 1-3 victory and progression to the next round seems reasonable given their experience and talent. However, Barbastro shouldn’t be counted out completely, especially with their strong home support and recent cup success. It’s likely to be a competitive match, regardless of the final score.
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