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The quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey bring a high-stakes encounter to the Estadio de Mestalla as Valencia host Athletic Club. This decisive fixture is scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, 2026, with kickoff at 21:00 local time. With both clubs viewing this tournament as their primary path to silverware this season, a tactical and hard-fought battle is expected in front of 55,000 spectators.
| Stats | Valencia | Athletic Club |
| League Position | 12th | 10th |
| Goals Scored (Avg) | 1.05 | 0.95 |
| Goals Conceded (Avg) | 1.59 | 1.41 |
| Clean Sheets (Last 8) | 0 | 0 |
| BTTS Frequency | 59% | 50% |
| Last 4 Head-to-Head Draws | 0 | 0 |
Professional Match Analysis and Technical Overview
This Copa del Rey quarterfinal features two historically significant Spanish clubs currently experiencing fluctuating form in domestic play. Valencia, managed by Carlos Corberan, enters this tie after a period of mixed results in La Liga. While they have struggled for consistency in the league, the “Mestalla” factor has remained a vital asset for the hosts, providing them with the necessary momentum to reach this stage of the competition.
Athletic Club arrived in the quarterfinals seeking to replicate their 2024 success in this tournament. Despite a recent 0-5 setback in the Super Cup and a challenging Champions League campaign that ended in the group stages, the Basques have remained resilient in cup football. Their path to the quarterfinals involved a series of high-scoring away victories, highlighting an offensive capability that often contrasts with their more conservative league approach.
Squad Analysis and Probable Lineups
Both sides are dealing with notable absences that could influence the tactical setup. Valencia must navigate injuries to several key defensive figures, while Athletic Club is hampered by both injuries and suspensions to their central defensive core.
Valencia Predicted Lineup
The hosts are expected to deploy a structured 4-4-2 formation. Dimitrievski is likely to start between the posts, shielded by a backline of Gaya, Copete, Santamaria, and Foulquier. The midfield will likely feature the creative duo of Pepelu and Ugrinich, supported by Danjuma and Rioja on the flanks. Hugo Duro and Beltran are anticipated to lead the attacking line.
Athletic Club Predicted Lineup
The visitors are expected to utilize a 4-2-3-1 system. Unai Simon remains the certain choice in goal. Due to suspensions, the defense will require reshuffling, likely featuring Berchiche, Paredes, Vivian, and Areso. The midfield pivot of Jauregizar and Ruiz de Galarreta will provide the foundation for an attacking trio of Nico Williams, Unai Gomez, and Berenguer, with Guruzeta operating as the lone striker.
Betting Options Analysis
Data from recent encounters suggests that this matchup rarely ends in a stalemate, with no draws recorded in the last four head-to-head meetings. Valencia has shown signs of improvement in January, securing three wins in their last four outings across all competitions. Conversely, Athletic Club has found it difficult to maintain defensive discipline, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last eight matches.
The market indicates a very balanced contest. The hosts’ slight edge in recent form and home advantage makes the Asian Handicap market a point of interest for analysts. Additionally, given the defensive vulnerabilities on both sides, the probability of both teams finding the net remains high.
Professional Prediction and Betting Tips
The tactical battle will likely be determined by how well Athletic Club’s makeshift defense handles the directness of Valencia’s front two. While the Basques possess individual quality in Nico Williams, Valencia’s collective cohesion under Corberan at home has been notable in recent weeks.
Final Betting Tip: Valencia Asian Handicap 0 Odds: -125 (1.80)
Wrap Up
With a place in the semi-finals at stake, both Valencia and Athletic Club are expected to prioritize the Copa del Rey. Valencia’s recent resurgence and home support at the Mestalla give them a marginal advantage over an Athletic side that has struggled with defensive consistency in 2026. Expect a competitive match where the home side’s momentum likely carries them through to the next round.
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