The last time Barcelona defeated Real Sociedad at the Anoeta Stadium was in May of 2007. Considering Barca’s dominance in La Liga, that’s a surprising run for a team that seemingly has won everywhere. Fortunately for the Blaugrana though, they don’t need to win on Wednesday to advance to the Copa del Rey Final.
Real Sociedad vs. Barcelona, 2014 Copa del Rey: Preview and TV schedule
Holding a two-goal lead after the first leg, Barca just need a positive result at the Anoeta to advance.
David Ramos
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After a 2-0 win in the first leg thanks to Sergio Busquets and one of the stranger own-goals you’ll ever see, Barca simply need to play well and they should book a spot in the final. Despite their struggles at the Anoeta -- including a 3-2 loss there last season -- Barca should be confident after their big win over Sevilla over the weekend. More important than the win was the incredible performance from Lionel Messi who looked like his usually amazing self for the first time since returning from injury.
La Real struggled over the weekend in a scoreless draw against Levante.Jagoba Arrasate’s side have been up and down all season and while they’re right in the middle of the fight for European spots, they haven’t reached the heights we saw last season.
A comeback and upset of Barcelona would potentially kick start their season.
Real Sociedad injuries and suspensions
Out: Iñigo Martinez (suspended).
Barcelona injuries and suspensions
In Doubt: Neymar (ankle), Carles Puyol (back).
Neymar is back training but remains doubtful for a return just yet. Defender Carles Puyol's back is likely to keep him out as well, but with Javier Mascherano back from suspension that shouldn't matter.
Projected lineups
Real Sociedad: Zubikarai, Carlos Martinez, Mikel Gonzalez, Jon Ansotegui, Jose Angel, Jon Arrospide, Joseba Zaldua, Gorka Elustondo, David Zurutuza, Antoine Griezmann, Carlos Vela.
Barcelona: José Manuel Pinto, Dani Alves, Gerard Piqué, Javier Mascherano, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, Cesc Fàbregas, Sergi Roberto, Alexis Sánchez, Cristian Tello, Lionel Messi.
Match Date/Time: 9 p.m. local, 3 p.m. ET
Venue: Anoeta Stadium, San Sebastián, Spain
TV: beIN Sports USA, beIN Sports en Español (U.S.), Sky Sports 2 (U.K.), Sportsnet (Canada)
Online: beIN Sports Play (U.S.), beIN Sports Play (Canada)
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