Almería vs Barcelona Match Preview
Almeria's first experience at the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey has been a little bit traumatizing, as the crowds were expecting some signs of improvement under Oltra's command. Barcelona didn't hesitate on sending Almeria back home with five goals, and it seems highly unlikely for the hosts to ambush Barcelona and claim the ticket for the grand finale.
Barcelona travels with an alternate starting eleven but all of their top stars ready to join the game in case things get out of control. Ibrahim Afellay and Bojan Krkic will join Pedro in the attack, while Javier Mascherano and Seydou Keita assist Xavi in the midfield.
Andres Iniesta is ruled out with a minor elbow injury, while Jose Manuel Pinto replaces Victor Valdez between the posts.
Almeria's coach knows his best defense is a strong offense, and for that reason he's decided to line up Fernando Ulloa and Henok Goitom in the attack. Pablo PIatti, Marcelo Silva and Juanito have been left out of the match squad, while Juanma Ortiz misses yet another game due to injuries.
This is a new chapter in Almeria's history no matter what happens on Wednesday night. The hosts look forward to say goodbye to the Cup with an important victory, will they surprise Barcelona and bag a major victory at home?