Barcelona Faces Betis in Crucial Copa del Rey Clash After Historic Slump

BARCELONA, Spain — FC Barcelona returns to Montjuïc this Wednesday to face Real Betis in a high-stakes Copa del Rey round of 16 match, just weeks after ending a historic three-game home losing streak. The clash marks their first meeting in the tournament in 14 years, reigniting a rivalry that dates back to their dramatic 1997 final, which Barcelona won 3-2 in extra time.

The two teams have faced off 18 times in Copa del Rey history, with Barcelona claiming nine victories, Betis six, and three matches ending in draws. This encounter comes as Barcelona seeks to regain momentum after a turbulent start to 2025, despite their recent Spanish Super Cup triumph in Saudi Arabia.

“The victory in Arabia has boosted the team’s confidence,” said a club spokesperson, referencing their 4-1 win in the Super Cup final. However, Barcelona’s domestic form has been shaky, with three consecutive home losses for the first time since 1965.

Barcelona’s manager, Hansi Flick, faces lineup challenges, including the suspension of goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, who was sent off in the Super Cup. Iñaki Peña is expected to start in goal, while Ronald Araújo will replace the injured Iñigo Martínez in defense.

Betis, meanwhile, arrives in Barcelona without key players Giovanni Lo Celso, Luiz Henrique, and William Carvalho, all sidelined due to injuries. Despite these absences, the team remains dangerous, having held Barcelona to a 2-2 draw in their recent La Liga encounter. Isco‘s return to fitness adds firepower to their attack.

“We know Betis is a strong opponent,” Flick said during a press conference. “We must stay focused and respect their quality.”

The match will also feature several former Barcelona players in Betis’ squad, including Abde Ezzalzouli and Marc Bartra, adding an emotional layer to the contest. Betis, seeking their fourth Copa del Rey title, last won the tournament in 2022.

Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. local time at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, with Barcelona hoping to avoid another upset and Betis aiming to capitalize on their opponent’s recent struggles.