FC Barcelona advanced to the Copa del Rey semifinals after a nerve-wracking 2-1 victory over second-division Albacete at the Carlos Belmonte Stadium on Tuesday evening, ending the lower-league team's remarkable cup run that had seen them eliminate Real Madrid in the previous round.
The defending champions entered the quarterfinal clash with heightened caution, fully aware they faced the tournament's most dangerous giant-killers. Albacete had shocked Spanish football by defeating both Celta Vigo and Real Madrid in earlier rounds, making them the only remaining second-division side in the competition's final eight.
Early Control and Breakthrough
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick made several key tactical decisions for the encounter, most notably bringing back Uruguayan defender Ronald Araújo to the starting lineup after a lengthy injury absence. The German coach also relied on the attacking brilliance of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and England midfielder alongside other key players in his tactical setup.
The Catalan giants dominated possession from the opening whistle, seeking to avoid the fate that befell their El Clásico rivals. Their patience was rewarded in the 39th minute when Lamine Yamal broke the deadlock with a precisely placed shot that beat Albacete goalkeeper Raúl Lizoain at the far post.
"We knew this would be difficult after what happened to Real Madrid here. We had to be at our best level."
— Hansi Flick, Barcelona Manager
Araújo Doubles the Lead
Barcelona appeared to have the match under control when Ronald Araújo doubled their advantage in the 56th minute. The Uruguayan center-back, making his return from injury, rose majestically to meet a corner kick with a powerful header that left Lizoain with no chance. The goal seemed to signal the end of Albacete's fairy-tale run.
The Carlos Belmonte Stadium, which had witnessed some of the most dramatic moments in recent Copa del Rey history, fell silent as the home supporters watched their team fall two goals behind to the tournament favorites.
Late Drama and Final Push
Just when Barcelona fans began celebrating their progression, Albacete reminded everyone why they had earned their reputation as the tournament's most feared underdogs. In the 87th minute, veteran forward Javi Moreno capitalized on a defensive lapse to pull one goal back, sending the home crowd into raptures and setting up a grandstand finish.
The goal transformed the atmosphere at the Carlos Belmonte, with Albacete supporters believing they were about to witness another miraculous comeback. The home side pressed forward desperately in the final minutes, seeking the equalizer that would force extra time and potentially another upset.
Historical Context and Tournament Significance
Albacete's journey to the quarterfinals had captured the imagination of Spanish football fans. Their elimination of Real Madrid in the round of 16 marked the first major upset of new Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa's tenure, coming in his debut match following Xabi Alonso's departure. The victory against the Spanish giants had been Albacete's crowning achievement in what had been an extraordinary cup run.
The second-division side had arrived at this stage as the only lower-league team remaining in the competition, having maintained an impressive defensive record throughout their cup campaign. They had gone four matches without conceding a goal in their league, adding to their confidence ahead of facing Barcelona.
Barcelona's Cup Ambitions
For Barcelona, reaching the semifinals represents another step toward defending their Copa del Rey title. The victory, while not as convincing as they might have hoped, demonstrated their ability to grind out results under pressure – a quality that will be essential as they progress deeper into the competition.
The performance also highlighted the continued development of young star Lamine Yamal, whose opening goal showcased the composure and technical ability that has made him one of European football's most exciting prospects. His contribution, combined with Araújo's timely return from injury, provides Flick with valuable options as the season reaches its crucial phase.
Looking Ahead
Barcelona now await the semifinal draw, knowing they will face one of the three remaining teams in the competition. Their victory over Albacete, while achieved with some difficulty, keeps alive their hopes of retaining the Copa del Rey trophy and adding another piece of silverware to their collection this season.
For Albacete, their extraordinary cup run comes to an end, but not without having left an indelible mark on this year's tournament. Their victories over two Primera División sides and their spirited performance against Barcelona will be remembered as one of the standout stories of the 2025-26 Copa del Rey.
The match served as a reminder that in cup football, no lead is safe and no opponent can be underestimated – lessons that Barcelona will carry with them as they continue their quest for domestic cup glory.