The Copa del Rey is entering its most decisive phase as it happens every season, the tournament is preparing to enter the final stages where the big favorites will face the surprises chained during the previous rounds, thanks to the direct elimination system. In this way, the less strong teams have the opportunity to compete against others in much more favorable positions and with significantly higher rankings.
In this edition, several historic teams have already dropped out of the tournament, and the panorama is beginning to be defined. Among those that remain, there are five clubs considered to be the main contenders for the trophy.
Below we will analyze the five teams that are best positioned to fight for the title.
Real Madrid: experience and competitiveness
Real Madrid arrives at this stage of the Copa del Rey without much to the liking of its fans and with a dressing room that seems to be letting go of Xabi Alonso, although he can never be dismissed for his incredible ability to always compete.
The group retains a firm structure, with players who are used to playing in finals and performing in critical situations. Despite the frequent changes that usually occur in this championship, Real Madrid presented a concentrated, practical and productive performance. Its psychological strength, together with the breadth of the team, enables it to compete in the Cup without neglecting other goals.
In a short tournament, where small things can be decisive, class and experience usually have a big impact, and in this respect, the white team has an advantage over any opponent.
FC Barcelona: rebuilding, young talent and ambition
Barcelona is entering the Copa del Rey at a crucial moment in its reconstruction under the direction of Hansi Flick, although it has some players in a low state of mind, such as Ronald Araujo. With a group of young players who are no longer just promises but have become realities, the team has achieved a better balance and a clearer identity than in previous years.
The Cup appears as a strategic objective to consolidate the project and the Catalan team is positioned as the great favorite for users of gambling platforms, according to predictive patterns that grant welcome bonuses in bookmakers, Barça combines intensity, possession and individual imbalance, which can lead them to conquer the title without major problems.
Atlético de Madrid: solidity, order and a knockout mentality
When it comes to knockout or single-leg competitions, Atlético de Madrid is always considered a natural contender, although it seems to rely heavily on the performance of Julián Álvarez up front and lacks a more elaborate approach. The Colchonero side enter the Copa del Rey maintaining their essence: tactical discipline, energy, defensive solidity and a great ability to compete in difficult conditions.
The Copa del Rey suits Atletico’s style, which is at ease in tense matches, with few mistakes and high concentration. In that dynamic, their ability to manage the game and take advantage of opportunities makes them one of the most difficult opponents, and no wonder.
Athletic Club: identity and collective strength
Athletic Club re-establishes itself as one of the most prominent clubs in the Copa del Rey, an event that has special significance in its history. With a solid identity, focused on energy, collaboration and emotional motivation, the Basque team presents itself with firm foundations.
However, Athletic faces a major obstacle: the Champions League fixtures, which are not in their favor and which also take up a significant part of their schedule. This situation causes more complications than benefits, so it will have to manage the remainder of the year with a somewhat limited squad for three competitions.
Additionally, the symbolic importance of this tournament and the ambition to recapture a national title serve as an additional boost. When Athletic enters its competitive phase, it becomes a formidable opponent for any opponent.
Real Sociedad: consolidated project and balanced soccer
Real Sociedad is another club that arrives at the Copa del Rey with solid arguments. In recent years, the organization has established a firm project, with a clear playing philosophy and a balanced squad, capable of competing at both national and international level.
The team exhibits good ball control, tactical order and a solid defense. In addition, they have a generation of players who have already gained experience in crucial matches, which is essential in this type of tournament.
