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Barcelona is set to face Real Betis today, January 15, 2025, in the Copa del Rey Round of 16 at the Estadio Olímpico Lluís Companys. The match kicks off at 21:00 local time and will be broadcast on Movistar Plus+, M+ LaLiga TV2, and LaLiga TV Bar.
Barcelona enters this fixture buoyed by a recent Supercopa victory over Real Madrid. However, they face challenges with key players unavailable. Defender Íñigo Martínez is sidelined for approximately four weeks due to a hamstring injury, prompting manager Hansi Flick to consider retaining Ronald Araújo, who was previously linked with a move to Juventus. Additionally, goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny is suspended following a red card, with Iñaki Peña expected to start in his place.
Flick has emphasized the importance of maintaining the team's recent positive momentum, stating, "We have to show that we are a strong team, as we did against Madrid." He also addressed the situation of Ansu Fati, acknowledging the player's struggles to regain full fitness and form, describing it as "a pity."
Real Betis, currently seventh in La Liga, poses a formidable challenge. They have recently regained key players, including Isco, and have a history of testing Barcelona, as evidenced by their recent 2-2 draw in La Liga. However, they will be without Gio Lo Celso due to a miofascial injury, and there are doubts over the availability of Diego Llorente and Chimy Ávila.
In an effort to galvanize support, Barcelona's management has opened the stadium doors to season ticket holders free of charge, aiming to create a vibrant atmosphere to propel the team into the quarterfinals.
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, Barcelona will look to leverage their recent successes and home advantage, while Real Betis aims to capitalize on Barcelona's defensive absences to secure an upset.
