Albacete vs Barcelona: Copa del Rey Quarter-Final Preview, Kick-Off Time and Key Details
FC Barcelona face Albacete Balompié tonight in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals, in a decisive knockout clash that will determine who advances to the semi-finals of the competition.
The match will be played as a single-leg tie, meaning there is no room for error. One mistake could end Barcelona’s hopes of lifting the Copa del Rey this season.
Match Details
• Competition: Copa del Rey – Quarter-Final
• Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2026
• Venue: Estadio Carlos Belmonte
• Kick-off Time: 21:00 CET
Barcelona travel to Albacete knowing they must deliver a focused and professional performance to avoid a cup upset.
Barcelona Team News
Hansi Flick’s side arrive with a few injury concerns. Raphinha has been ruled out, while the coaching staff continue to manage workloads carefully due to a congested fixture schedule.
Despite this, Barcelona are expected to field a strong lineup, with Robert Lewandowski leading the attack and young star Lamine Yamal likely to play a key role in wide areas.
Midfield control will be crucial, with Frenkie de Jong and Ilkay Gündogan expected to dictate the tempo.
Albacete’s Challenge
Albacete have already proven they can cause problems for top teams in this season’s Copa del Rey. Playing at home, they will look to stay compact defensively and hit Barcelona on the counter-attack.
The home crowd is expected to create an intense atmosphere, turning this into a difficult away test for the visitors.
Tactical Battle
Barcelona are likely to dominate possession, while Albacete will aim to remain disciplined and organized. Breaking down a deep defensive block will be one of Flick’s main challenges.
Set-pieces could also play a key role, with both teams aware that a single goal may decide the tie.
What Is at Stake
A victory will send Barcelona into the Copa del Rey semi-finals and keep their hopes of domestic silverware alive.
With La Liga and European commitments also demanding focus, progressing in the cup would represent a major boost for morale and momentum.