Real Madrid, the reigning champions, are into the last 16 of the Copa del Rey, and that they had to fight hard to overcome Arandina’s tough resistance.
Real Madrid faced a difficult task in defending their Copa del Rey crown, but they began the campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over a brave Arandina side on Saturday evening.
Carlo Ancelotti handed debuts to Vinicius Tobias, Alvaro Carrillo, and Arda Guler for the match, but it was the latter player’s first-half display that caught the attention. Despite Real Madrid’s inability to convert their chances, Guler’s creativity provided glimpses of hope for the home side.
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In the second half, Los Blancosimproved significantly, and within 10 minutes, they had taken a 2-0 lead. Brahim Diaz was fouled inside the box, allowing Joselu Mato to step up and convert the penalty. Barely a minute later, it was Brahim himself who scored Real Madrid’s second goal, completing a fine counter-attack that he had initiated.
Real Madrid secured a 3-1 win in stoppage time thanks to Rodrygo’s goal, but they ultimately conceded a last-minute own goal by Nacho Fernandez, who inadvertently turned Raly Cabral’s cross into his net. This incredible moment proved to be a turning point for Arandina.
Despite the setback, Real Madrid can look forward to the draw for the last 16 of the tournament, as they still have a spot in the draw. Looking ahead, their attention will now shift towards Wednesday’s Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico Madrid in Riyadh.
With this victory, Real Madrid started their Copa del Rey campaign on a positive note. The Blancos will now look to build on this performance and continue their quest for silverware.
