Barcelona advanced to the Copa del Rey semifinals Tuesday with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Albacete at Estadio Carlos Belmonte. the win continues barcelona’s quest for a record 33rd Copa del Rey title and keeps their hopes alive for a potential treble this season[[1]]. Despite injuries to key players, Barcelona demonstrated dominance against their second-division opponents, securing their place in the next round where they will face either Alavés or Real Sociedad[[3]].
Barcelona defeated Albacete 2-1 in a Copa del Rey quarterfinal clash at Estadio Carlos Belmonte. The victory sends Barcelona through to the semifinals as they continue their pursuit of a record 33rd Copa del Rey title.
Despite missing key players Pedri and Raphinha through injury, Barcelona controlled possession and dictated the tempo against their lower-division opponents. The first half saw limited clear-cut chances for either side, with Marcus Rashford squandering the best opportunity early on for Albacete.
Barcelona broke the deadlock in the 38th minute when Lamine Yamal expertly finished a demanding pass from De Jong with a precise shot, giving his team a much-needed advantage.
The Catalans came out with renewed energy in the second half, creating more dangerous attacks. Ronald Araújo doubled the lead in the 56th minute, heading home a corner delivered by Rashford – despite a desperate attempt by Albacete goalkeeper Raúl Lizoain to keep the ball out.
Yamal continued to cause problems for the Albacete defense, repeatedly driving at his marker. Albacete nearly pulled one back with seven minutes remaining, but a goal was disallowed for offsides. However, they didn’t have to wait long, as Javi Moreno headed home to reduce the deficit and ignite hopes of a late comeback.
A late chance for Francisco Gámez was cleared off the line by Eric García, but Barcelona held on to secure their place in the semifinals. They will now face the winner of the Alavés versus Real Sociedad tie. The win keeps Barcelona on track for a potential treble this season.
