In a gripping 2025-26 Copa del Rey quarterfinal encounter, FC Barcelona overcame spirited hosts Albacete Balompié with a 2-1 victory on 3 February 2026, booking their place in the tournament’s semifinals. The win further cemented Barcelona’s dominance in Spain’s premier cup competition, but not without a late scare from the second-division side that had already stunned Real Madrid earlier in the tournament.
Quarterfinal Showdown at Estadio Carlos Belmonte
The clash took place at Estadio Carlos Belmonte in Albacete — a venue packed with passionate supporters dreaming of another giant-killing run. Albacete, who play in Spain’s Segunda División, had entered the quarterfinals riding high after stunning recent victories against top-flight opposition.
Match Highlights: Yamal and Araujo Deliver for Barça
Barcelona took control of the match thanks to two key goals from standout performers:
- Lamine Yamal — opened the scoring in the 39th minute with a clinical left-footed finish after a well-worked team move, giving Barça the early lead.
- Ronald Araujo — doubled the advantage early in the second half, heading home from a corner in the 56th minute during his first start since returning from a mental-health break.
Despite Barcelona’s control for most of the game, Albacete refused to go quietly. Javier “Javi” Moreno pulled one back for the hosts with a powerful header in the 87th minute, giving Albacete a lifeline and setting up a nervy finale.
Late Drama and Barça Hold On
In stoppage time, Barcelona thought they had a third goal through Ferran Torres, but it was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Albacete nearly forced extra time with a dramatic line clearance by Barcelona’s defence in the dying moments, but Barça managed to see out the 2-1 win and secure their place in the Copa’s last four.
Tactical Notes and Team Performances
Barcelona’s approach reflected their quality and experience, with dominant possession (over 70 %) and frequent attacks led by creative midfield play and incisive wing work. Barcelona goalkeeper Joan García was tested early, but ultimately needed only a handful of key saves to keep the visitors ahead.
Albacete impressed with their resilience and tactical organisation, particularly in defending sustained pressure from a top-tier opponent. Their late goal highlighted the importance of set-pieces and on-target finishing, areas the hosts have increasingly relied on during their surprising Copa del Rey run.
What This Means for Barcelona
With the win, Barcelona extend their run of success in the Copa del Rey, reaching the semifinals for the 16th time in the last 20 years. The triumph also keeps alive their bid to defend the title they won last season — part of a long history of dominance in the competition.
Head coach Hansi Flick praised his squad’s mentality after the match, noting that knockout football often demands resilience and composure, particularly when underdogs push deep into contests.
Albacete’s Giant-Killers Story
Albacete’s cup run has been one of the stories of the 2025-26 Copa del Rey. Having already knocked out Celta Vigo and then Real Madrid — a result that sent shockwaves through Spanish football — they came close to another historic upset against one of the country’s most successful clubs.
Their journey ends in the quarterfinals, but the performances of Álvaro Arbeloa’s squad will be remembered by fans for their passion and resilience against elite competition.
Looking Ahead: Copa del Rey Semifinals
Barcelona’s focus now shifts to the Copa del Rey semifinals, where they will face another formidable opponent with ambitions of lifting the trophy in Seville this spring. With a blend of youth talent and seasoned veterans, Barça remain one of the favourites to win the competition once again.
Match in Brief
- Competition: 2025-26 Copa del Rey Quarterfinals
- Venue: Estadio Carlos Belmonte, Albacete
- Final Score: Albacete 1-2 Barcelona
- Goals: Lamine Yamal (39′), Ronald Araujo (56′); Javier Moreno (87′)
- Outcome: Barcelona progress to the Copa del Rey semifinals.
Last Updated on: Wednesday, February 4, 2026 4:02 pm by BUSINESS SAGA TEAM | Published by: BUSINESS SAGA TEAM on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 4:02 pm | News Categories: Business Saga News, Sports News, Trending News
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