Barcelona Vs Albacete: Live Score, Preview, Lineup, Telecast Details
| Date | Tuesday, February 3, 2026 |
| Time | 01:30 AM IST (Feb 4) |
| Venue | Estadio Carlos Belmonte |
| Competition | Copa del Rey (Quarter-final) |
🏟️ Giant-Killers Host Holders in Copa del Rey Quarter-final
Albacete Balompié welcomes defending champions FC Barcelona to the Carlos Belmonte for a high-stakes quarter-final clash. The hosts are aiming for a historic upset after stunningly eliminating Real Madrid with a 3-2 victory in the previous round. Alberto González's side enters the match in strong form, having won their last four matches in all competitions.
Barcelona arrives as the overwhelming favorite, currently leading La Liga and on a blistering run of 15 wins from their last 16 games. Hansi Flick's men comfortably progressed through the earlier rounds with 2-0 wins over Guadalajara and Racing Club. Despite the gulf in status, the Catalan giants are wary of the challenge posed by the only remaining second-tier club in the competition.
- Event: Copa del Rey Quarter-final
- Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2026
- Time: 01:30 AM IST (Wednesday, Feb 4)
- Venue: Estadio Carlos Belmonte, Albacete
- Context: Albacete is seeking its first semi-final appearance since 1995.
📊 Team Analysis & Form
Albacete (Coach: Alberto González, Form: W W W W D)
The home side will be missing defensive trio Pepe, Jon Herrero, and Lluis Lopez through injury. Midfielder Edward Cedeño and forward Higinio Marín are also likely to miss out. Albacete's defense has been particularly solid recently, recording three consecutive clean sheets in league play following their famous win over Madrid. Their strategy will likely focus on defensive discipline and clinical counter-attacks.
Barcelona (Coach: Hansi Flick, Form: W W W L W)
Barcelona faces a blow as Raphinha is ruled out with an adductor injury sustained in the weekend win over Elche. He joins Gavi, Pedri, and Andreas Christensen on the sidelines. On a positive note, Jules Koundé has recovered from a minor muscle scare and is available. Marcus Rashford, who scored against Elche, is expected to step into the starting lineup alongside Lamine Yamal.
⭐ Key Players
- Albacete: Jefte Betancor (Forward) - The hero against Real Madrid with a match-winning brace, he remains their most potent goal threat.
- Albacete: Javier Villar (Midfielder) - Played a vital role in the previous round and will be key to disrupting Barcelona's midfield rhythm.
- Barcelona: Lamine Yamal (Winger) - Continues to be the primary creative spark, capable of unlocking deep defensive blocks.
- Barcelona: Marcus Rashford (Forward) - In top form after his goal against Elche and his recent European scoring spree.
🎯 The Key Battlegrounds
- Low Block vs. Individual Brilliance: Albacete's improved defense must withstand constant pressure from Barca's talented front line.
- Handling the Pressure: Having already knocked out Real Madrid, Albacete has the psychological advantage of knowing they can beat the elite.
- Squad Rotation: Hansi Flick must balance resting players for La Liga with ensuring a strong enough side to avoid a cup upset.
🔮 Prediction and Final Word
Albacete has proven they are giant-killers, but Barcelona’s relentless consistency under Flick makes them a much harder target than a struggling Madrid. While the hosts may hold firm initially, the sheer quality and depth of the visitors—even with rotations—should eventually see the holders through to the semi-finals.
Predicted Score: Albacete 1–3 Barcelona
Can Albacete claim another historic scalp, or will the reigning champions march on? Kick-off is tonight at 01:30 AM IST (Feb 4)!
Would you like me to provide the confirmed starting lineups for Albacete and Barcelona as soon as they are released at the Estadio Carlos Belmonte?
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