### Barcelona and Real Madrid Clash in High-Stakes Copa del Rey Final - The Copa del Rey final on April 26, 2025, features a historic rivalry as Barcelona faces Real Madrid, with both teams vying for a prestigious title. Barcelona, the most successful team in the tournament's history with 31 titles, aims to secure their second trophy under coach Hansi Flick, while Real Madrid seeks redemption after losing both league encounters to their rivals this season [https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/04/barcelona-vs-real-madrid-preview-team-news-line-ups-and-predictions][https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/football/real-madrid-vs-barcelona-2025-copa-del-rey-final-predicted-lineups-article-151506220]. ### Breakdown of the Upcoming Match 1. **Match Context** - The final marks the first Copa del Rey clash between these teams since 2014, intensifying the rivalry [https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/football/real-madrid-vs-barcelona-2025-copa-del-rey-final-predicted-lineups-article-151506220]. - Both teams are under pressure, with Real Madrid's coach Carlo Ancelotti needing a win to secure his position after a disappointing season [https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/football/real-madrid-vs-barcelona-2025-copa-del-rey-final-predicted-lineups-article-151506220]. 2. **Team News and Lineups** - Barcelona's lineup will be crucial, especially with key players like Robert Lewandowski potentially missing the match [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/barcelona-v-real-madrid-copa-080300460]. - Real Madrid's predicted lineup includes Kylian Mbappé, who is expected to play a pivotal role in the match [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/soccer/news/barcelona-vs-real-madrid-lineups-starting-11-team-news-injuries/0e2455025d95187e5bc70905]. 3. **Historical Significance** - This match is not just about the trophy; it represents a chance for both teams to assert dominance in Spanish football [https://www.newsday.com/sports/soccer/barcelona-real-madrid-copa-del-rey-final-d47219]. - The rivalry has deep roots, with both clubs having a storied history of competition, making this final particularly significant for fans and players alike [https://www.newsday.com/sports/soccer/barcelona-real-madrid-copa-del-rey-final-d47219]. ### Key Data Points and Insights - **Copa del Rey Titles**: Barcelona leads with 31 titles, while Real Madrid has 19 [https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/04/barcelona-vs-real-madrid-preview-team-news-line-ups-and-predictions]. - **Recent Encounters**: Barcelona has won both league matches against Real Madrid this season, adding pressure on Ancelotti's side [https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/football/real-madrid-vs-barcelona-2025-copa-del-rey-final-predicted-lineups-article-151506220]. - **Coaching Stakes**: Hansi Flick aims to solidify his legacy at Barcelona with another trophy, while Ancelotti's future may hinge on this match [https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/football/real-madrid-vs-barcelona-2025-copa-del-rey-final-predicted-lineups-article-151506220]. ### Conclusion: Anticipation for a Historic Final - **Major Takeaways**: 1. The Copa del Rey final is set to be a defining moment for both clubs, with Barcelona looking to extend their record and Real Madrid aiming for redemption. 2. Key player absences and tactical decisions will significantly impact the match outcome. 3. The historical context of this rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement and pressure for both teams. In summary, the upcoming Copa del Rey final between Barcelona and Real Madrid is not just a match; it is a culmination of rivalry, history, and the quest for glory in Spanish football [https://www.newsday.com/sports/soccer/barcelona-real-madrid-copa-del-rey-final-d47219].