Barcelona’s Copa del Rey Hopes Hang in the Balance
Barcelona is facing a critical situation in the Copa del Rey, with two games remaining to secure a spot in the tournament. The team’s recent defeat against Bàsquet Girona has left them in ninth place with a 7-8 record, making it challenging to obtain one of the two remaining spots.
A Difficult Road Ahead
Barcelona’s most viable option is to win both of their upcoming games, which would bring their total victories to nine and potentially surpass the average of one of the teams ahead of them in the standings. The teams currently ahead of Barcelona are Casademont Zaragoza and BAXI Manresa, who will face each other on Saturday. The outcome of this match will significantly impact Barcelona’s chances, as only one of these teams can reach nine wins.
Alternative Scenarios
While winning both games is the most straightforward path, Barcelona could still qualify for the Copa del Rey by winning only one of their two games. However, this scenario would require a combination of specific outcomes, including the loser of the Casademont Zaragoza-BAXI Manresa match also losing on matchday 17, and Baskonia not winning their remaining matches. Additionally, UCAM Murcia or Surne Bilbao Basket would need to fail to reach eight wins, which would improve Barcelona’s average and secure their spot in the tournament.
The Consequences of Defeat
If Barcelona loses both of their remaining games, they will be eliminated from contention for the Copa del Rey. The team’s upcoming matches against Dreamland Gran Canaria and Surne Bilbao Basket will be crucial in determining their fate in the tournament.