Prediction: Guadalajara vs Barcelona

Verdict: Total away goals over 3.5

Best odds: 5/4

Bookmaker: 888sport

The Copa del Rey often produces memorable underdog stories, and this clash between CD Guadalajara and Barcelona epitomizes that narrative.

Guadalajara, a third-tier side, will host the reigning La Liga leaders in what promises to be a historic occasion for the club and its supporters. Barcelona, meanwhile, begin their cup campaign aiming to avoid any slip-ups and maintain momentum across competitions.

CD Guadalajara

CD Guadalajara are currently competing in Primera Federación Group 1, where they sit 17th with 17 points from 16 matches. Their league form has been inconsistent, with a recent 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid Castilla halting progress after a brief unbeaten spell. Overall, they have recorded 4 wins, 5 draws, and 7 losses, scoring 16 goals and conceding 24, which highlights defensive vulnerabilities against stronger opponents.

In the Copa del Rey, however, Guadalajara have impressed, eliminating Cacereño (2-1) and Ceuta (1-0) in previous rounds. These results underline their ability to stay organized and capitalize on limited chances. Manager Pere Martí will likely adopt a compact approach, relying on experienced figures like Jorge Casado in defense and David Amigo, their joint top scorer with three goals, to lead counterattacks. The home crowd at Pedro Escartín will play a vital role in lifting the team for what is arguably the biggest game in their modern history.

Team News

Guadalajara have no reported injuries or suspensions, giving Martí the luxury of fielding his strongest XI. Expect continuity from the previous cup rounds, with Dani Vicente in goal and a midfield anchored by Pablo Rojo and Manu Ramírez.

Barcelona

Barcelona enter this fixture in outstanding form. They top La Liga with 43 points from 17 matches, boasting 14 wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats, and a remarkable goal difference of +29 (49 scored, 20 conceded). Their recent run includes a 2-0 victory over Osasuna, a 5-3 thriller at Real Betis, and a 3-1 win against Atlético Madrid, extending their winning streak to six league matches. Despite a Champions League setback against Chelsea, Hansi Flick’s side remains dominant domestically, averaging nearly 3 goals per game.

Key performers such as Ferran Torres (11 goals) and Robert Lewandowski (8 goals) have been instrumental, while Lamine Yamal continues to impress with creativity and assists. Flick is expected to rotate slightly but maintain a strong lineup to avoid any surprises. Barcelona’s attacking depth and pressing game should allow them to control proceedings early and minimize Guadalajara’s hopes of an upset.

Team News

Barcelona will be without Dani Olmo (shoulder injury) and Gavi (meniscus surgery), both sidelined until early 2026. Ronald Araujo remains unavailable due to personal reasons, while goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny is doubtful with illness.

No suspensions are reported, and Flick still has ample options, including Pedri, Raphinha, and Lewandowski, to field a competitive side.

Head-to-Head

This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between CD Guadalajara and Barcelona.

Historically, Barcelona have dominated Copa del Rey ties against lower-tier opposition, often winning by large margins. Guadalajara, meanwhile, have never faced a club of Barcelona’s stature, making this a landmark occasion for their fans.

The gulf in resources is stark: Barcelona’s squad value exceeds €1billion, compared to Guadalajara’s modest valuation of around €3million.

Conclusion

Barcelona are overwhelming favorites, and anything less than a convincing win would be a major shock. Their attacking firepower and depth should prove decisive, even with a few absentees.

For Guadalajara, the goal will be to remain in the game for as long as possible and try to frustrate their illustrious visitors, savouring a historic night regardless of the result.

Expect Barcelona to dominate possession and create numerous chances, while Guadalajara will aim to capitalize on set pieces and counterattacks in front of a passionate home crowd.

Verdict: Total away goals over 3.5

Best odds: 5/4

Bookmaker: 888sport