PREVIEW | Epic Clash Barcelona vs Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey Final

• A Legendary Battle Awaits as Spain’s Giants Face Off for Glory

This isn't just any Copa del Rey final — it's a Classic showdown, with Barcelona taking on Real Madrid at La CARTA Stadium in Seville this Saturday, kicking off at 10 PM CEST. The 121st edition of the tournament’s grand finale will unfold under the warm spring night, as Hansi Flick’s Barça seek their 32nd Copa title and a second trophy of the season.

More Than Just a Trophy

The stakes go far beyond the silverware. Barça are chasing a treble, sitting four points clear at the top of La Liga and preparing for a Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan. A Copa del Rey win would be a huge morale boost. Meanwhile, Real Madrid, currently second in the league behind Barça, are aiming to recover after their recent Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal. Another defeat on Saturday could deliver a major blow to their La Liga hopes.

On the flip side, a victory for Real Madrid would reignite their title ambitions ahead of next month’s crucial La Liga clash against Barça at the Estate Olympic Lluís Companys. It's clear Saturday's outcome could shape the remainder of the season for both teams, far beyond just lifting the Copa del Rey.

26,000 Culers Set to Light Up Seville

The newly renovated La Cartuja stadium will be buzzing with energy as 26,000 passionate Barça fans make the journey to Seville for the big final. However, not everyone will be taking part on the field. Hansi Flick’s side will be without key players Marc Bernal, Alejandro Baldé, Marc Casadó, and Robert Lewandowski, all sidelined due to injury.

Real Madrid also face their own setbacks, missing important names like Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, and Eduardo Camavinga. With both teams not at full strength, this Copa del Rey final could turn into something much bigger than just a battle for a trophy.

Flick Eyes Another Trophy in Seville

Hansi Flick is no stranger to finals, and this Saturday marks his second since taking charge at Barça. After lifting the Spanish Super Cup back in January, the German coach is eager to add another piece of silverware to the club’s collection for the 2024/25 season.

"The stadium is fantastic, and we have to enjoy the occasion. But we are here to win," Flick said during his pre-match press conference on Friday in Seville.

The coach believes his team comes into the final in good shape, building on a "great performance against Mallorca" and "fighting until the end" versus CELTA. Flick is hoping for a repeat of that spirit against Real Madrid.

"Real Madrid Have a Fantastic Team"

True to his usual calm and respectful approach, Flick praised the opposition.

"We know it’s going to be tough. They have a fantastic team — one of the best in the world. We must show respect to Real Madrid," he said ahead of the showdown.

Ferran Torres and the Left-Back Puzzle

With Robert Lewandowski ruled out through injury, Flick was asked about Ferran Torres possibly leading the line. "Ferrand has shown in every cup game that he can perform as a '9'. He understands exactly how we want to play in that role," the coach responded with confidence.

There were also questions about who would step in at left-back with Alejandro Blade injured. Flick simply smiled and said, "We'll see tomorrow," keeping his cards close to his chest as the final approaches.