The upcoming clash is shaping up to be a big one for both Real Madrid and Barcelona, as injuries and squad dynamics add drama to a Copa del Rey semifinal twist. The first leg will light up the Santiago Bernabéu on Thursday night, delivering one of the most anticipated chapters in Spanish football every year.
Fans are anticipating a classic duel between two of the sport’s most storied rivals, with this meeting coming at a decisive knockout stage. The semifinal format guarantees intensity, tactical battles, and high-stakes moments as both sides aim to take a favorable result back to their home turf for the second leg.
Carlo Ancelotti will push his squad to the limit, especially after recent fitness concerns. The Italian manager has a deep rotation policy, yet injuries have left him juggling options at the left-back position. The absences of David Alaba and Ferland Mendy leave a vacancy on the left flank, with Nacho Fernández the most likely choice to fill the role. Eduardo Camavinga could be utilized there as well, offering an alternative approach that might free up Aurelien Tchouameni to operate elsewhere. In central defense, Antonio Rüdiger is expected to anchor the back line alongside his partners, maintaining the team’s defensive structure under pressure.
Carletto, with everything at stake… though Rodrygo is feeling the strain
There is little doubt about the starting XI for Real Madrid. The goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will shield the goal, followed by Dani Carvajal and Militao to reinforce the defensive line. The midfield will be anchored by veterans Luka Modric and Toni Kroos, with Fede Valverde providing energy and drive. Up front, Vinicius Junior and Karim Benzema are the core attacking threats, with Rodrygo Goes dealing with a minor discomfort that has not ruled him out of contention for the match.
There are extensive battles to win in midfield, where the tactical chess match will be played. The contest could see Rodrygo fit into a more flexible role or be kept as an attacking option, depending on how the game unfolds. The team’s shape will be tested, but the core idea remains clear: maximize ball progression, stretch the opposition, and convert chances when they arise.
Meanwhile, Barcelona travels with a slate of challenges. Xavi Hernández’s side have suffered two consecutive defeats, failing to translate recent momentum into positive results in important fixtures. The injury list for Barça weighs heavily: top scorer Robert Lewandowski is sidelined, joining Pedri González and Ousmane Dembélé in the medical room. The squad is pulling together to cope with the absences and still push for a favorable result in the away leg, aiming to keep their Cup hopes alive.
On the pitch, Ansu Fati has returned to the squad after a knee issue, offering a potential spark for the attack. The defensive lineup faces a choice between the steady experience of Jordi Alba and the youth and pace of Alex Balde. In midfield, Pedri and Pablo Gavi are out, while Frenkie de Jong and Sergio Busquets will have to shoulder greater responsibility, possibly supported by Franck Kessié or Sergi Roberto. Up front, Raphinha and Ferrán Torres will be tasked with providing width and directness, forming an aggressive front line alongside Gavi in a bold attacking setup that aims to challenge the Madrid defense at the Bernabéu.
Updates will continue as teams finalize their plans for the first leg, with fans eager to see how the tactical duel unfolds on the field. Both camps will be following the latest developments closely as they prepare to compete for a crucial advantage in this prestigious Cup tie.
Fans can stay connected with live coverage and ongoing updates via official team channels and trusted sports media outlets, as the drama of one of football’s fiercest rivalries unfolds.
LINEUPS FOR CLÁSICO REAL MADRID VS. BARCELONA
WHEN AND WHERE IS THE CLASSIC REAL MADRID VS. BARCELONA
The semifinal clash takes place at a renowned venue, with kick-off scheduled for the evening local time. The format ensures that the teams will have chances to respond to each other’s strategies across the two legs, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
THE CALLS FOR THE CLASSIC REAL MADRID VS. BARCELONA
REAL MADRID
As of now, an official lineup announcement for El Clásico has not been released by Real Madrid.
FC BARCELONA
Injured and sanctioned by the REAL MADRID CLASSIC VS. BARCELONA
REAL MADRID
FC BARCELONA
SCHEDULE AND WHERE TO SEE LIVE CLASSIC REAL MADRID VS. BARCELONA
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