Barça Faces Madrid in Final Leg of Copa de la Reina Semifinals

BARCELONA, Spain – The FC Barcelona women’s team will host Real Madrid on Wednesday at the Johan Cruyff Stadium in the second leg of their Copa de la Reina semifinal after a commanding 5-0 victory in the first match. While the outcome of the aggregate score seems predetermined, the rivalry remains intense.

Barcelona, having dominated previous encounters with Real Madrid, will aim to maintain their unbeaten streak. The last seven Clásicos have ended without Real scoring, an aspect that coach Pere Romeu hopes to improve on during this match, despite the high stakes being largely nonexistent.

“We understand that matches against Madrid are special because it’s a Clásico,” said Romeu. “Despite our 5-0 victory in the first leg, we still need to improve defensively. Even though they didn’t score, they made it to our goal and those tougher matches help us bring out our best.”

The only significant absence for Barcelona is Claudia Pina, who suffered an injury during the last league match against Valencia and is expected to be sidelined for about two weeks. Romeu has called up three players from the reserve team—Schertenleib, Caño, and Judit Pujols—to round out the squad.

The stakes are higher for Real Madrid, currently overshadowed by their rivals and looking to find some form in their offensive play. Coach Alberto Toril expressed optimism about the upcoming match: “It will be a different game compared to the first leg because we will be able to maintain a more stable possession and play the way that suits us best. If the pitch conditions are optimal, it will facilitate our style of play.”

Madrid has seen growth in their attacking phase, featuring players like Ella Weir and Brunn who possess the ability to create offensive opportunities. “They have improved significantly, and we must remain vigilant,” Toril added.

Despite Barcelona’s advantageous position, the team will not underestimateg the challenge that Real Madrid can pose today. The match kicks off at 19:00 local time and will be broadcasted live on TV3 and La 2.