Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, Spain – FC Barcelona’s roller hockey team faces a challenging road ahead as they enter the 2026 Copa del Rey, seeking to reclaim the title they last won in 2024. The competition, held in the heart of the cava-producing region of Catalonia, presents an immediate test against CE Noia Freixenet, a team that has historically proven difficult for Barça, especially on their home court. This year’s Copa del Rey, running from March 19th to March 22nd, carries added weight for the Catalan powerhouse after a disappointing quarterfinal exit in the 2025 edition.
The objective for Barça is clear: to erase the memory of last year’s Copa del Rey, where they fell to Noia Freixenet 0-2 in the quarterfinals, ultimately watching Reus Deportiu lift the trophy. The team, now under the guidance of Ricard Ares, travels to Sant Sadurní d’Anoia following a drawn match against Pons Lleida, knowing the opening match against the local favorites will be a fierce contest. The atmosphere at the Agricultural University, Noia Freixenet’s home arena, is expected to be particularly intense, adding another layer of difficulty to Barça’s quest.
A History of Struggles in Sant Sadurní
Barça’s record in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia is far from encouraging. Of the last six visits, they have secured victory only once, with four wins for Noia Freixenet and one draw. This historical disadvantage underscores the challenge awaiting Ricard Ares’ squad. The recent head-to-head record further emphasizes Noia’s dominance; on February 21st, Noia Freixenet defeated Barça 4-2 in a league match played at the Ateneu, continuing a trend of success against the Catalan giants on their own turf.
The Road to the Final
Should Barça overcome Noia Freixenet in the quarterfinals on March 19th at 8:45 PM, their path to the final won’t be effortless. They would then face the winner of the Calafell-Reus match, adding another layer of competition. The Copa del Rey’s Final 8 similarly includes Hockey Club Liceo, Igualada Rigat HC, Calafell La Menorquina, Reus Deportiu Brasilia, CP Voltregà Movento Stern and Aitex Pas Alcoy, creating a highly competitive field.
Confidence from the Team
Despite the challenging road ahead, there’s a sense of optimism within the Barça camp. Xavi Barroso expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, stating, “I think the team is doing very well. We are very excited and eager to win, and to win well. May what we are doing in training be transferred to the Copa del Rey. The desire and ambition are immense.” This sentiment reflects a renewed focus and determination to perform at their best in the tournament.
Barça’s Cup Pedigree
FC Barcelona boasts a rich history in the Copa del Rey, standing as the competition’s most successful team with 26 titles. Their last victory came in 2024. RCD Espanyol trails behind with 11 titles, their last win dating back to 1962. Hockey Club Liceo, with 10 titles, is also a strong contender, and a victory in this year’s Copa del Rey would bring them level with Espanyol. The club currently sits second in the OK League standings, trailing only Hockey Club Liceo and ahead of Igualada Rigat HC.
Copa del Rey Schedule
Quarter Finals
Calafell-Reus, March 19, 6:15 p.m
Barça-Noia, March 19, 8:45 pm
Igualada-Voltregà, March 20, 7 p.m
Liceo-Alcoi, March 20, 9:30 p.m.
Semifinals
March 21, 2:00 p.m.
March 21, 6:15 p.m.
Final
March 22, 11:45 a.m.
As Barça prepares for their quarterfinal clash against Noia Freixenet, the team’s focus remains firmly on overcoming their historical struggles and making a deep run in the Copa del Rey. The next confirmed step for the team is their match on March 19th, where they will glance to begin their campaign and prove their championship aspirations.
What are your thoughts on Barça’s chances in the Copa del Rey? Share your predictions and comments below.
