Starting My Research
Woke up this morning itching to predict Barça’s lineup against Barbastro. First thing I did was grab my phone and check official club social media – nada. Typical Barça keeping cards close before cup games. Scrolled through 3 different news sites while chomping toast. All saying Pedri might get benched after playing 90 minutes last weekend. Who knows?
Putting Together the Pieces
Remembered Xavi loves rotating for Copa del Rey. Dug out Barça’s last lineup sheet from my messy desk drawer. Crossed out Gavi with my red pen cause of his ACL tear. Scribbled “Fermin?” next to midfield section after his decent performance against Las Palmas.
- Checked injury reports: Ter Stegen still recovering
- Lewandowski definitely starting per AS newspaper
- Heard Araujo might get rested for La Liga clash
Banged my head trying to guess the defense lineup. Koundé played fullback last match but might shift central today? Total headache.
Making Final Predictions
Finally slapped my notebook and decided:
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Predicted Starting XI:
- Keeper: Peña
- Back line: Balde – Christensen – Koundé – Cancelo
- Midfield: Fermin – Romeu – Sergi Roberto
- Forwards: Ferran – Lewandowski – Felix
Changed my mind three times about Joao Felix. Kid’s so inconsistent but Xavi seems to love him lately. Added Raphinha as first sub cause that guy always delivers off the bench.
Final Thoughts
Gotta be honest – predicting cup lineups feels like reading tea leaves. Xavi loves springing surprises, like that time he started Lamine Yamal unexpectedly. If my prediction bombs, well, that’s football. Either way, hitting publish now before team sheets drop!