class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>The final of the Copa del Rey takes place in the Estadio La Cartuja in Seville this weekend and our tipster is backing the Catalans to lift the trophy
The two most successful clubs in the history of Spain’s Copa del Rey meet in the final this Saturday as Barcelona take on Athletic Club.
The Basques were in action two weeks ago in the postponed final of last season’s competition and will be hoping to banish the memories of defeat to local rivals Real Sociedad with a memorable win over the Catalans, who they beat in the final of the Spanish Super Cup back in January.
Ronald Koeman’s men will be focused on securing his first piece of silverware as manager Barca, who are clear favourites to triumph.
Athletic Club vs Barcelona Latest OddsIndeed, Barca are available at just 8/15 (1.53) to win in 90 minutes and at 1/4 (1.25) to win their 31st Copa del Rey crown.
The Basques come into the final on a disappointing run of form which has seen them fail to win any of their last six matches in all competitions.
Indeed, the side from Bilbao have only won two of their last 15 competitive games in 90 minutes and bet365 price them at 19/4 (4.75) to win without extra time and at 11/4 (3.75) to lift the trophy by any means.
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Athletic Club vs Barcelona Team News
The Catalans remain without long-term absentees Ansu Fati and Philippe Coutinho, but Gerard Pique was an unused substitute in last weekend’s Clasico defeat to Real Madrid and could come back into the starting eleven.
Athletic were missing defenders Yuri Berchiche and Yeray Alvarez for their goalless draw against Alaves last weekend, although both have been back in training this week and should be available.
Athletic Club vs Barcelona Preview
This will be the fourth meeting between these two sides this season, with Barcelona winning both La Liga clashes and Athletic triumphing in extra time in the Spanish Super Cup.
Those three matches all came back in January and the two sides have enjoyed contrasting fortunes since that final meeting, with Barca winning eight of their 10 Liga games and Athletic failing to kick on under new manager Marcelino Garcia Toral.
The Catalans will be looking to bounce back from the disappointment of losing the Clasico, a game in which they could easily have triumphed, and Koeman’s charges should be well fancied against an out-of-form Athletic side.
Athletic Club vs Barcelona Tips and Predictions
Barca to win and score over 1.5 goals is priced at 4/5 (1.80) and looks like the best way of getting the Blaugrana onside in a market where they are heavily fancied.
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.