Barcelona Reach Copa Semis After Late Albacete Drama
FC Barcelona booked a place in the Copa del Rey semi-finals on Tuesday, February 4, edging past Albacete in a dramatic quarter-final decided late at the Olympic Stadium. Barça needed patience and composure to overcome stubborn resistance and keep their domestic trophy hopes alive.
Barcelona dominated possession and chances but struggled to break through until the closing stages, when sustained pressure finally paid off. “It was a difficult match because they defended very well,” head coach Xavi Hernández said. “The team stayed calm and believed until the end.”
Albacete threatened on the counter and pushed Barcelona deep at times. “We competed with courage,” an Albacete player said. “Conceding so late is painful, but we can be proud.”
A Barcelona midfielder added: “These games test your character. Advancing was the most important thing.”
The win keeps Barcelona firmly in the hunt for silverware as attention now turns to the semi-final draw.