Editors’ Choices: Thrilling Weekend Headlines with the Copa del Rey Final and FA Cup Semis

This weekend, the football universe will be shining brightly, featuring thrilling cup matches in Spain and England. Liverpool also stand on the brink of being crowned Premier League champions.

Here’s a look at what our team will be focusing on over the weekend:

Saturday, April 26th

Copa del Rey Final: Barcelona vs. Real Madrid – 22:00 CET

The coveted Copa del Rey trophy will be decided this weekend, with fierce rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid set to clash in what promises to be an exhilarating encounter.

The last El Clasico final took place back in 2014, when Gareth Bale made headlines with his iconic solo goal, sprinting past Marc Bartra to secure the win.

This season has been exceptional for Barcelona, who are eyeing a potential treble. They currently sit four points clear at the top of La Liga and have reached the semi-finals of the Champions League. Manager Hansi Flick has orchestrated an impressive campaign, and Saturday presents an opportunity for them to take a significant step towards a historic season.

In contrast, Real Madrid has faced a tougher path. After being knocked out of Europe by Arsenal in the quarter-finals, the spotlight is on Carlo Ancelotti and his squad. The Copa del Rey represents their best shot at securing silverware, igniting a sense of urgency and resolve among the players to redeem themselves.

However, Real has struggled against Barcelona this season, suffering two significant defeats. In their most recent encounter during the Spanish Super Cup, Barcelona thrashed Los Blancos 5-0, just three months after a 4-0 victory at the Bernabeu.

Although the odds appear against Real, should their star performers find their rhythm in this knockout fixture, it could lead to a captivating spectacle.

Explore our Copa del Rey preview here

Tolga Akdeniz

Sunday, April 27th

Inter Milan vs. AS Roma – 15:00 CET

Inter Milan experienced their first major setback of the season on Wednesday night, being eliminated from the Coppa Italia by AC Milan.

AC Milan delivered a standout performance, securing their place in the final and bringing an end to Inter’s hopes of a treble in an agonising match for coach Simeone Inzaghi’s side.

A victory against long-time Serie A rivals AS Roma is crucial for Inter to regain momentum in the title race, particularly after a surprising defeat against Bologna last weekend. However, another loss could prove to be detrimental.

AS Roma are in fantastic form in Italy, boasting a remarkable 19-match unbeaten streak in Serie A following a tough start to their campaign. Manager Claudio Ranieri has done wonders since taking over in November, maximising player potential and nurturing exciting talents like Matias Soule.

For Inter, delivering a polished performance at home is crucial for claiming vital points in a heated title race. This result would also ease concerns about a potential season downfall ahead of a significant Champions League semi-final match against Barcelona next Wednesday. Meanwhile, Roma will be eager to embrace the underdog status and won’t go down without a fight.

Harry Dunnett

Liverpool vs. Tottenham – 17:30 CET

A historic moment awaits Arne Slot’s team, with Liverpool needing just a point against Tottenham on Sunday to clinch a record-equalling 20th top-flight title.

The Reds have been formidable at home, remaining unbeaten in their last 15 league meetings with Tottenham (W11, D4), and will be keen to secure the title in front of their supporters.

Conversely, Tottenham’s poor league form continued with an 18th defeat of the season against Nottingham Forest on Monday, leaving them just one defeat shy of matching their all-time high total of 19 from the 1993/94 and 2003/04 seasons.

Currently languishing at 16th in the table, Spurs face an anxious time as they prepare for the first leg of their Europa League semi-final against Bodo/Glimt, leading to a potentially challenging afternoon at Anfield for Postecoglou’s squad.

Goals are often plentiful when these teams meet, and Sunday should be no exception as Liverpool aims for a historic achievement. Make sure you catch the action!

Danny Clark

FA Cup Semi-Final: Manchester City vs. Nottingham Forest – 17:30 CET

This season has not met the high standards set by Manchester City, who have struggled in their quest for both the Premier League and Champions League titles. The FA Cup now stands as their only chance for silverware this term.

Conversely, Nottingham Forest have enjoyed a remarkable season, pushing for an unlikely Champions League placement under manager Nuno Espirito Santo. They have become a formidable counter-attacking unit that has posed challenges to teams throughout the league.

Earlier in March, they caused City problems, securing a 1-0 victory with a Callum Hudson-Odoi goal. However, their momentum has stalled in recent weeks, suffering two losses in three outings.

With both teams facing high stakes, City aim to salvage their season, while Forest chase a major trophy for the first time since 1990. A full-capacity Wembley will host this thrilling encounter – an event not to be missed, especially for Liverpool supporters.

Learn more about the FA Cup semi-finals now

Josh Donaldson