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Analysis of the match between Albacete Balompié and Barcelona
Albacete head into this clash carrying a five-match unbeaten run across all competitions, winning four and drawing one. That positive form provides a major psychological boost, especially as the club prepares for one of the most memorable milestones in its history. Currently sitting 12th in Spain’s Segunda División, Alberto González’s side have collected 33 points from 24 matches, recording a fairly balanced return of nine wins, six draws and nine defeats.
After the disappointment of an early Copa del Rey exit last season — losing 1–2 to CE Europa in the first round — Albacete have shown clear progress this year. Their journey to the quarter-finals has been eye-catching, highlighted by a dramatic victory over Real Madrid in the round of 16. This marks only the second time in Albacete’s history that they have reached the Copa del Rey quarter-finals, the previous occasion coming in the 1994/95 season, when they went on to reach the semi-finals. Confidence is also high after a 2–0 domestic win over Real Zaragoza last weekend, courtesy of goals from Agus Medina and Betancor.
On the other side, Barcelona continue to assert their status as the most successful club in Copa del Rey history, having lifted the trophy a record 32 times. The Catalan giants are also the reigning champions, following a thrilling 3–2 extra-time victory over Real Madrid in last season’s final.
Under head coach Hansi Flick, Barcelona have been in outstanding form in La Liga, leading the table with 55 points from 22 matches, thanks to 18 wins, one draw and just three defeats. They extended their strong run last weekend with a 3–1 comeback win over Elche, with goals from Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres and Marcus Rashford after conceding early.
Across all competitions, Barcelona have won four of their last five matches and have completely dominated recent meetings with Albacete, winning all six of their most recent encounters. Their latest clash came in La Liga in 2005, when Barcelona claimed a 2–0 victory.
