A new winner of the Copa del Rey is set to be crowned as rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid face off in the final. While the two giants may be on different trajectories currently, a rivalry match with silverware at stake is always unpredictable. Barcelona is aiming for a record 32nd title in this competition as the first step towards a potential treble. Conversely, Real Madrid desperately needs to salvage their season by overcoming their arch-rivals in this crucial fixture.
With Carlo Ancelotti`s tenure as Real Madrid manager potentially nearing its end, a victory in this final would provide a significant high note. While reclaiming La Liga from Barcelona remains a long shot, winning the cup is a more immediate goal. Barcelona, however, faces a challenge of their own, missing star striker Robert Lewandowski, which presents Hansi Flick with tactical decisions. The presence of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha offers attacking options, but Real Madrid also possesses star power, even if their attack hasn`t been as consistently fluid as Barcelona`s recently. Yet, finals are unique occasions where everything can click, and Real Madrid will be hoping this is the moment their attack finds its rhythm, potentially determining which team lifts the trophy.
Tactical Battle: Barcelona`s High Line vs. Real Madrid`s Attack
The final is poised as a clash of contrasting playing styles. Under Hansi Flick, Barcelona tends to push high, pressing opponents aggressively and maintaining a high defensive line. Real Madrid`s forward players, particularly the wide attackers, will look to exploit the space left behind this high line. This creates a direct tactical confrontation. While Barcelona`s high line can be vulnerable, it often leads to opposition strikers being caught offside. Real Madrid`s best chance to break through will depend on effective runs from players like Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior. Without Alejandro Balde, Barcelona`s defense may lack some speed, which is a potential weakness Real Madrid could target.
Barcelona`s Attack Without Lewandowski
Barcelona`s attack will likely have a different dynamic without a central focal point like Robert Lewandowski. Ferran Torres is expected to lead the line. While he didn`t score in a recent match against Mallorca, he was integral to an attack that generated an impressive 40 shots, even with Raphinha rested for parts of the game. Torres, possibly interchanging positions with Dani Olmo, can make Barcelona`s attacking movements less predictable for Real Madrid defenders. The combined threat of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha ensures Barcelona still has plenty of offensive firepower. However, compared to facing Mallorca, Barcelona`s attack will need to be more clinical and take shots from better scoring positions. Nevertheless, if they can maintain a high shot volume in the final, even around 30 shots, it could spell trouble for Los Blancos.
Handling the Pressure Cooker
Both teams are under immense pressure: Barcelona chasing a treble while missing a key player, and Real Madrid fighting to rescue a season that hasn`t met expectations. A trophy final significantly magnifies this pressure. Both clubs have demonstrated resilience under pressure at times, but recently, Barcelona appears to have a more settled mentality. Reports of Real Madrid reportedly requesting changes to the officiating for the match suggest that the pressure might already be affecting them.
