Get ready for a thrilling showdown at the Estadio El Sardinero, where history and passion collide in the Copa del Rey Round of 16! Racing Santander, the Second Division leaders, are set to challenge Barcelona, the defending Cup champions, in what promises to be an electrifying clash. But here's where it gets intriguing: Santander isn't just any underdog—they knocked out Villarreal in the previous round and are more than capable of pulling off a monumental upset in front of their fervent home crowd. Will Barcelona secure their spot in the quarter-finals, or will Santander write a new chapter in their storied history? Join us for live updates, commentary, and all the action as these two teams battle it out. Vamos!
LINEUPS
BARCELONA
Starting XI: Joan; Kounde, Cubarsí, Martín, Balde; Casadó, Bernal; Yamal, Olmo, Rashford; Ferran (4-2-3-1)
Substitutes: Ter Stegen (GK), Szczesny (GK), Araujo, Eric, Cancelo, Pedri, Fermín, Tommy, Roony, Raphinha, Lewandowski
RACING SANTANDER
Starting XI: Ezkieta; Mantilla, Hernando, Castro, García; Sainz-Maza, Aldasoro; Camara, Guliashvili, Gueye; Arana (4-2-3-1)
Substitutes: Laro (GK), Ramón, Salinas, Canales, Puerta, Rodríguez, Martínez, Vicente, Martín, Sangalli, Lozano
MATCH DETAILS
Competition/Round: 2025-26 Copa del Rey, Round of 16
Date/Time: Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 9pm CET/WAT (Barcelona & Nigeria), 8pm GMT (UK), 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 1:30am IST (India, Friday)
Venue: Estadio El Sardinero, Santander, Spain
Referee: José María Sánchez Martínez
VAR: David Gálvez Rascón
HOW TO WATCH
On TV: Premier Sports 1 (UK), Startimes World Football (Nigeria), Movistar (Spain), and others. Check Live Soccer TV for more options. Note: Not available on TV in the USA.
Online: ESPN+ (USA), Premier Sports Player (UK), FanCode (India), Movistar+ (Spain), and others. Visit ESPN+ or Live Soccer TV for streaming details.
MATCHDAY THREAD RULES
While we keep things relaxed here, there are a few guidelines to ensure a smooth experience for everyone:
- Keep it clean: Even if the referee makes a questionable call or the game doesn’t go our way, let’s avoid excessive swearing. It’s unnecessary and detracts from the fun.
- No illegal streaming links: Discussing or sharing illegal streams is strictly prohibited. Those who post links will be banned immediately, and others will receive a warning.
- Be kind: This is a Barcelona community, and we’re all here to share our passion for the club. Let’s keep the atmosphere friendly and respectful.
Enjoy the match, and remember: no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!
Controversial Question: Could Racing Santander's home advantage and recent form make them the dark horse of this Copa del Rey season? Or is Barcelona's experience and depth too much to handle? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
