"The Estadio Carlos Belmonte will be the stage for a compelling Copa del Rey quarter-final on Tuesday evening, as Segunda División side Albacete Balompié look to extend their remarkable run in the competition. Barcelona, 32-time winners and the most successful club in the cup's history, arrive as overwhelming favourites but wary of a host riding the wave of a fairytale campaign."
"Unbeaten in their last five matches across all competitions, Albacete have rediscovered their rhythm at the perfect time. Four victories and a draw have fuelled enthusiasm as Alberto González's men prepare for one of the most significant occasions in the club's recent history. Currently 12th in the Segunda División with 33 points from 24 matches, their season has been mixed-nine wins, six draws and nine defeats-but their improvement in the Copa del Rey has been notable."
"Confidence remains high after a 2-0 league victory over Real Zaragoza at the weekend, with Agus Medina and Betancor continuing their excellent form. Team News Higinio Marín is a doubt due to a thigh issue, while Edward Cedeño remains sidelined following surgery. Betancor-having scored twice versus Madrid and again last weekend-is expected to start. Raúl Lizoain should retain his place in goal, while Javier Moreno and Carlos Neva anchor the defence."
Albacete host Barcelona at the Estadio Carlos Belmonte in a Copa del Rey quarter-final. Barcelona are 32-time winners and overwhelming favourites. Albacete are unbeaten in five matches, with four wins and a draw, and sit 12th in the Segunda División on 33 points from 24 matches. The cup run includes a dramatic round-of-16 victory over Real Madrid, where Javi Villar scored, Franco Mastantuono equalised, and substitute Jefte Betancor scored twice to secure a 3-2 win after Gonzalo García had levelled. Albacete have never won the Copa del Rey; the 1994-95 semi-final remains their best run. Confidence grew after a 2-0 league win over Real Zaragoza. Team news lists Higinio Marín as doubtful, Edward Cedeño sidelined, Betancor likely to start, and Raúl Lizoain expected in goal with Javier Moreno and Carlos Neva in defence.
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