Spanish football’s greatest rivalry writes a new chapter tonight as Barcelona will take on Real Madrid in a mouth-watering Copa del Rey final at Seville’s La Cartuja stadium on April 26. This El Clasico is not just about silverware – it could also set the tone for the thrilling LaLiga title race where both sides are locked in.
Barcelona, the Copa del Rey’s most decorated club with 31 titles, are making their first final appearance since 2021, when they brushed aside Athletic Bilbao. Real Madrid, with 20 Copa crowns, are featuring in their second final in three seasons, having defeated Osasuna in 2023.
Given their current form, Barcelona head into the final brimming with confidence, having crushed Madrid 4-0 at the Bernabeu in LaLiga and dispatched them 5-2 in the Supercopa earlier this year.
But in a one-off El Clasico, form often goes out the window. With pride, history, and a major trophy on the line, tonight’s showdown in Seville promises to be unforgettable.
FLICK vs ANCELOTTI: Tactical Battle
Hansi Flick, having enjoyed early success at Barcelona, holds the psychological advantage heading into the final. Under his leadership, Barca have already beaten Real Madrid twice this season, including a resounding 5-2 victory in the Spanish Super Cup final in January.
Across the dugout, Carlo Ancelotti faces swirling rumours about his future. Reports said the Italian might leave right after the final, but Ancelotti quickly denied them himself.
Tonight’s final marks the 260th competitive meeting between Barcelona and Real Madrid – and the eighth time the two giants have met in a Copa del Rey final. Historically, Madrid hold a slight edge, winning four of the previous seven encounters.
TEAM NEWS
Barcelona have been dealt a major blow with Robert Lewandowski ruled out through injury. However, Ferran Torres, currently the competition’s joint-leading scorer, will shoulder the responsibility up front.
In contrast, Real Madrid have been boosted by the inclusion of Kylian Mbappe in the matchday squad. The French superstar, who limped off against Arsenal last week, is reportedly fit and raring to chase his second trophy since his high-profile move to Madrid.
HISTORY
2011: Under Jose Mourinho, Madrid ended an 18-year Copa drought by defeating Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona 1-0 in extra time, thanks to a towering header from Cristiano Ronaldo.
2014: A final remembered for Gareth Bale’s incredible solo goal – a breathtaking sprint down the touchline that sealed a 2-1 victory for Madrid after Angel Di Maria’s opener.
Real Madrid also won the title in 1936 and 1975, while Barcelona lifted the trophy in 1968, 1983, and 1990.
When will the Copa del Rey final between Barcelona and Real Madrid take place?
The Copa del Rey final will kick off at 1:30 AM IST on April 27 for viewers in India. The match will be held at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville, Spain.
Where can fans in India watch the Copa del Rey final?
Indian fans can watch the match live online through the FanCode app and website.
However, the game will not be broadcast on any television channel in India.
Predicted Lineups: Barcelona vs Real Madrid, Copa del Rey Final
Barcelona (4-2-3-1):
Szczesny (GK); Kounde, Cubarsi, Iigo Martinez, Martin; De Jong, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Raphinha; Ferran Torres.
Real Madrid (4-2-3-1):
Courtois (GK); Valverde, Asensio, Rudiger, Fran Garcia; Modric, Tchouamni; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr.; Mbappe.
