Copa del Rey, Barcelona vs Valencia: Preview, Dream11 and stats
Barcelona take on Valencia in Copa del Rey finale later tonight. Ernesto Valverde's men will be eyeing to cap off 2018-19 with a domestic double. The Spanish champions have dominated this tournament and go into the match as the favorites. An exciting match is expected on the cards. Here is the detailed match preview.
Teams news and selection
Barca's Luis Suarez will miss the final after undergoing a knee surgery. Full-back Semedo will be monitored before the match and is likely to miss out. Philippe Coutinho is set to return from injury, but he isn't guaranteed starting role. Dutch keeper Jasper Cillessen will start at the expense of the injured Marc-Andre ter Stegen. For Valencia, winger Denis Cheryshev could miss out.
Viewpoint: What did the managers say?
"For me, it's an incredible opportunity from a personal point of view. But what motivates me most is that everyone can go away on holiday after repeating what we did last year," said Valverde. "The key is giving Messi little to do in the game. The problem is that although he appears sparingly, his actions have a decisive influence," said Valencia manager Marcelino.
Stat attack: A look at the numbers
Barca are planning to become the first team to lift the trophy five times in a row. They have also won a total of 30 Spanish Cup titles and is keen to extend the tally. Jordi Alba is set to make his 300th appearance for Barcelona. In the last 29 meetings between the two, Barca have been beaten only twice.
Dream11: We have gone with a 4-4-2 formation
Cilessen leads the line on goal in this Dream1 team. The four-man defense sees Jose Luis Gaya and Alba as the full-backs. Gerard Pique and Facundo Roncaglia are the central choices. Sergio Busqets and Ivan Rakitic form the mid-field. Goncalo Guedes and Dani Parejo form bring the width. Forward Lionel Messi captains this side. Fellow striker Kevin Gameiro is the vice-captain.
Venue, timing and broadcast information
The two teams will meet each other at the Estadio Benito Villamarín in the final of the Copa del Rey. The match is scheduled for 12:30 AM IST start. One can watch the match live on the Jio TV app.
