The Copa del Rey lived up to its reputation for drama as Albasete stunned Real Madrid 1-0 in the round of 32, a result that sends shockwaves through European football. The plucky hosts outfought and outsmarted the galacticos on a night of pure magic.
Real Madrid controlled the ball but struggled to pierce Albasete’s organized backline. Wingers like Mbappé and Vinicius dazzled sporadically, yet Fuoli’s reflexes and collective defending frustrated every move. The game’s turning point was Carro’s opportunistic strike, exploiting a rare Madrid error.
As the clock ticked down, Ancelotti’s changes couldn’t break the deadlock, with Albasete’s counter-threats keeping Madrid on edge. This victory, worth millions in prize money, propels Albasete forward while exposing Real Madrid’s cup vulnerabilities.
Pundits hail it as the upset of the season, underscoring why fans adore these knockout ties. Real Madrid refocuses on domestic and European fronts, but the sting of this defeat lingers long.