The Copa del Rey final between Barcelona and Real Madrid is a pivotal match for both clubs, significantly impacting Real Madrid`s season trajectory and Barcelona`s aspirations for a treble. As the season reaches its climax, both teams are grappling with notable injury concerns ahead of this highly anticipated encounter.
Barcelona will be without Alejandro Balde and Robert Lewandowski, key figures in their squad. Real Madrid also faces challenges, with new injuries to David Alaba and Eduardo Camavinga. Furthermore, in a surprising announcement, star striker Kylian Mbappe will not be included in Real Madrid`s starting lineup.
Both managers have faced the task of managing injuries while striving for peak team performance throughout the season. However, with a major trophy on the line, their tactical decisions for this final carry increased weight. Barcelona`s recent 1-0 victory against Mallorca provided insight into their attack without Lewandowski; despite creating numerous scoring opportunities (40 shots), they lacked a clinical finishing touch. However, the fluid interplay between Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres was a positive takeaway, making it difficult for the opposition defense to anticipate their positions. With players like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha also available, Barcelona`s attacking unit could pose a significant threat to Real Madrid`s defense.
In midfield, Pedri`s excellent form has been crucial for Barcelona, and controlling his influence will be a key focus for Real Madrid. Federico Valverde may be tasked with marking the dynamic midfielder. Camavinga`s absence is a blow to Madrid`s midfield versatility and defensive cover. Given this, rested veteran Luka Modrić, despite his age at 39, is expected to play a vital role in the final, providing experience and control in the center of the park.
The absence of Kylian Mbappe from the starting XI is undoubtedly the biggest surprise. While his time at Real Madrid hasn`t consistently reached its peak in crucial matches, his speed and ability to stretch a defense would have been valuable against Barcelona`s high defensive line, potentially creating space for players like Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior. Without him, questions remain about who will step up to provide the necessary attacking thrust alongside Vinicius Jr.
Considering the circumstances, Barcelona appears to be the slight favorite as they pursue their treble ambition. However, Real Madrid possesses the quality to win this final but will need to deliver a significantly improved attacking performance compared to some of their recent outings.
Predicted & Announced Lineups
Barcelona (Predicted): Wojciech Szczesny, Jules Kounde, Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, Pedri, Gavi, Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Raphinha, Ferran Torres
Real Madrid (Announced): Thibaut Courtois, Ferland Mendy, Antonio Rudiger, Raul Asencio, Lucas Vazquez, Aurelian Tchouameni, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Dani Ceballos, Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, April 26
- Location: Estadio Olimpico de Sevilla — Sevilla, Spain
- Live Stream: ESPN+
