Unionistas vs Barcelona
Copa del Rey
Fourth Round
Thursday
18th January 2024
Campo de Futbol Reina Sofia
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Copa del Rey Fourth Round fixture between Unionistas and Barcelona.
Unionistas vs Barcelona: Preview
Unionistas form analysis
Salamanca come into the new year with back-to-back wins, propelling them into promotion contention in the Primera Division RFEF. Their most recent result was an excellent 2-1 home victory over top six side Rayo Majadahonda. Taking the lead midway through the first half via Hector Nespral before Majadahonda equalized from the spot just before the break. However, Ramiro Mayor popped up with a late winner to complete the comeback.
That dramatic victory built on a professional 2-0 away win at Barcelona’s B team a fortnight ago courtesy of goals from summer signing Slavy and substitute Varo Gomez. Prior to that winter resurgence though, Unionistas hit a poor run of form – scraping a goalless home draw with Teruel before a disappointing 1-0 defeat away at Sabadell. Undone by an 85th minute Marcos Baselga strike. On the whole, the manager seems to have added defensive stability and a renewed cutting edge to this youthful Unionistas side, making a late promotion push a genuine possibility this term.
Barcelona form analysis
Barcelona come into the new year sitting top of La Liga, with four wins from their last five league matches keeping them ahead of Real Madrid on goal difference. Their most recent result was a dramatic injury time 2-1 away victory at mid-table Las Palmas. Responding superbly to going behind early through a Mohamed El Haddadi strike before Ferran Torres equalized midway through the second half. Ilkay Gundogan netted an injury time penalty winner despite finishing the game with 10 men.
That hard fought success built on an excellent 3-2 home win over struggling Almeria just before Christmas. A Sergi Roberto brace helped Barca come from behind twice before sealing victory late on. Prior to that, Barca’s only dropped points came in a thrilling 4-2 home loss to overachieving Girona, despite Robert Lewandowski and Gundogan goals providing hope of a late comeback. On the whole, manager Xavi has added defensive stability and a ruthless edge to his exhilarating young side, making Barcelona serious title contenders as 2024 begins.
