Barcelona lock horns with Sevilla on Wednesday in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals as they aim to record their 31st cup title.
Since the demoralizing 3-2 defeat against Athletic Club in the Spanish Super Cup, Ronald Koeman's side have been flawless, scooping six wins on the bounce across all competitions.
Barcelona happen to be Atletico Madrid's closest challengers in La Liga, courtesy of five consecutive victories. The record-holders of the Copa del Rey have rediscovered their deadly goal-scoring form on a consistent basis.
This was demonstrated in their 5-3 comeback victory against Granada in the previous round.
A 67th-minute goal from Lucas Ocampos against Almeria steered Sevilla to the semi-finals. The Andalusian outfit are also in sublime form, having claimed four wins in a row in La Liga. In addition, they have not conceded a single goal in any of their last five matches across all competitions.
Sevilla vs Barcelona head-to-head
Barcelona have enjoyed dominance against Sevilla, having emerged victorious 36 times. Meanwhile, 11 matches between the two have been draws, with nine wins going the way of Sevilla.
Recent results and form makes this an intriguing match-up, as Sevilla have a knack for upstaging the giants of Spain.
Sevilla form guide (all competitions): W-W-W-W-W
Barcelona form guide (all competitions): W-W-W-W-W
Sevilla vs Barcelona team news
Sevilla
Sevilla are set to welcome star midfielder and former Barcelona man Ivan Rakitic to their midfield after a one-match suspension.
Julen Lopetegui has no fresh concerns ahead of this mouth-watering clash.
Injured: None
Doubtful: None
Suspended: None
Barcelona
Young defender Ronald Araujo has sustained a sprain to his ankle, according to tests on Monday.
He will join the treatment room that already consists of Sergi Roberto and Gerard Pique. Lionel Messi should return to the playing XI, while Ansu Fati is another long-term absentee for Barcelona.
Injured: Gerard Pique, Sergi Roberto, Ansu Fati, Ronald Araujo
Doubtful: None
Suspended: None
Sevilla vs Barcelona probable XI
Sevilla predicted XI (4-3-3): Bounou; Jesus Navas, Jules Kounde, Diego Carlos, Karim Rekik; Joan Jordan, Fernando, Ivan Rakitic; Suso, Youssef En-Nesyri, Lucas Ocampos
Barcelona predicted XI (4-3-3): Marc-Andre ter Stegen; Oscar Mingueza, Samuel Umtiti, Clement Lenglet, Jordi Alba; Sergio Busquets, Miralem Pjanic, Frenkie de Jong; Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Griezmann, Lionel Messi
Sevilla vs Barcelona match prediction
Sevilla's defensive solidity and resolve could test Barcelona's patience, as the visitors are likely to enjoy a lot of the ball.
An energetic display in midfield from Lopetegui's troops could stunt Barcelona's efforts, and they may have to settle for a goalless draw.
Prediction: Sevilla 0-0 Barcelona
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