This is arguably the most anticipated Copa del Rey Quarter final clash this year. Two teams in really great form fight for a spot in the semi finals. Barcelona have been imperious at home domestically, even when they aren't at their very best, as was evident in the game against Getafe. After a dogged win against Intercity and a comfortable outing against AD Ceuta, they're yet to be tested again as Imanol's Real Sociedad come to town.
The team from San Sebastian have hit a good stride of their own, winning their last nine games on a spin and looking really good while doing it. They scored within the first five minutes of their last Copa del Rey outings, and it was enough to ensure progress. However, they do have a poor record against Barcelona, having not won the Catalans since 2016 and yet to taste victory at the Camp Nou since 1991. They'll want to put that out of their minds as they intend to take the next step to winning their second Copa del Rey in 4 years.
INTERESTING STATS
- Barcelona and Real Sociedad have won the Copa del Rey a combined 34 times. This is the most of any match-up in this season’s quarter-final draw.
- Barcelona are the most successful side in the history of the Copa Del Rey, winning the trophy 31 times.
- Barcelona are one of only three teams to win the competition four years in a row. They are also the only side to do so in the post-World War II era.
- Real Sociedad have conceded just one goal in their last 630 minutes of competitive football.
TEAM NEWS
Barcelona
Barça had an injury scare when Andreas Christensen was substituted during the game against Getafe with a hamstring issue. However, it's deemed not to be serious and he still makes the squad, although it's unsure if he'll start.
The choice of Goalkeeper is a curious one. Iñaki Pena is the one doing the job so far in the Copa del Rey, but in a game of this magnitude, Xavi will be tempted to put his best guy there, so we might see TerStegen.
Balde, Kounde and Araujo are sure starters, but with Christensen unsure, Sergi Roberto might be called up to start as RB.
There are rumors of Xavi deploying the same formation he used in the Supercup final, so we might see Pedri, Gavi, Busquets and Frenkie. Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres are available for this, but only the polish striker is sure to start. Dembele and Raphinha will round up the attack.
Real Sociedad
La Real have a lengthy injury list and will be without several players for the game. David Silva is the latest addition to the list which includes Martin Merquelanz, Mohamed-Ali Cho, Alex Sola, Mikel Merino, Andoni Gorosabel, Jon Pacheco, Ander Guevara and Sadiq Umar.
On the positive front, Mikel Oyerzabal is slowly gaining rhythm and will see ample game time here. Take Kubo was rested against Vallecano and Martin Zubimendi will return from suspension.
Alex Remiro should start in goal behind the formidable back four of Aritz Elustondo, Igor Zubeldia, Robin Le Normand and Diego Rico. Brais Mendez, Asier Illarramendi and Barcelona-linked Martin Zubimendi should form the midfield trio.
The trio of Ander Barrenetxea, Alexander Sorloth and Oyarzabal should form the frontline.
Where and when are Barcelona vs Real Sociedad playing?
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Stadium: Spotify Camp Nou
Date: Wednesday 25 January
Kick-off Time: 20:00 GMT / 150:00 EST / 12:00 PST
Referee: Jesus Gil Manzano
Real Sociedad have the quality and morale to come to this game guns blazing but given their lengthy injury list, it will be an uphill battle as they'll face a fresh Lewandowski amongst others.
They're bound to play well and put up a good fight, as they always do, but history, quality and Current form favor the home side as they look to win their 32nd Copa del Rey trophy.
