Seville, Spain – The stage is set for a thrilling Copa del Rey final as FC Barcelona faces off against Real Madrid this Saturday at the Estadio de la Cartuja. With Barcelona in strong form and chasing a potential treble, all eyes are on Real Madrid, who are eager to salvage their season with this crucial trophy.
Barcelona last lifted the Copa del Rey trophy in 2021, and the stakes are high for both teams. Real Madrid, having missed out on La Liga, sees this match as a golden opportunity to claim silverware. The team has been under pressure to perform, especially in light of midfielder Eduardo Camavinga‘s season-ending injury.
Star player Kylian Mbappe‘s fitness remains a concern as he missed the recent match against Getafe. However, sources indicate that it was a precautionary measure, and he is expected to start against Barcelona. In contrast, the loss of Camavinga will be felt deeply by Madrid, who need their best players on the pitch to compete effectively.
Real Madrid’s squad is set for the clash with goalkeepers Thibaut Courtois, Andriy Lunin, and Fran González leading the line. The defense includes Lucas Vázquez, Jesús Vallejo, Fran García, Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy, and David Alaba. Midfielders Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Luka Modrić, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Dani Ceballos will work to control the tempo against a formidable Barcelona midfield, while forwards Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, Endrick, Brahim, and potentially Mbappe will look to finish off chances.
Barcelona arrives in Seville with captain and goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen returning after an extended absence due to injury. He will lead a squad that includes Ronald Araújo, Iñigo Martínez, Gavi, Ferran Torres, Pedri, Ansu Fati, and Raphinha. The absence of key players Robert Lewandowski, Alejandro Balde, Ilias Casadó, and Bernal may influence the game, yet the team remains in contention for a historic treble.
Recent controversy has plagued the buildup to the final, as Real Madrid accused the referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea of bias. Following a press conference where de Burgos addressed criticisms, he broke down emotionally, stating, “When a child arrives at school and his mates tell him that his father is a thief, it makes you sick.” Madrid has since denied claims they would boycott the match, affirming their commitment to play.
Coach Hansi Flick weighed in on the dispute at his press conference, urging respect for referees as essential for the integrity of the sport. He emphasized, “It’s only a sport. It’s only a game. It’s only football.” As the teams prepare for what promises to be an electric encounter, fans across the globe eagerly await the showdown.
