Reigning Copa del Rey champions Real Madrid secured their spot in the last 16 with a 3-1 triumph against fourth-tier side Arandina on Saturday. Despite a spirited effort from the minnows in the first half, Real Madrid asserted their dominance in the second half, with goals from Joselu, Brahim Diaz, and Rodrygo Goes.
In a tightly contested match, Arandina managed to frustrate Madrid in the province of Castile and Leon, creating a surprisingly even first half. Carlo Ancelotti opted for a mix of reserve and youth players, including the return of Eduardo Camavinga after a two-month absence due to a knee ligament injury. Turkish playmaker Arda Guler also made his first appearance since joining from Fenerbahce in the summer.
Guler showcased his prowess in the first half, coming closest to breaking the deadlock by striking the post with a powerful free-kick. Real Madrid eventually took the lead early in the second half when Brahim Diaz was fouled in the area, leading to Joselu converting a penalty with precision.
Brahim Diaz extended Madrid's lead shortly after, seizing an opportunity as the ball fell to him and slotting it past Arandina goalkeeper Adrian Alvarez. Despite Joselu missing a chance to further increase the lead, substitute Rodrygo sealed the victory with a third goal in stoppage time, courtesy of Diaz's cross.
In a moment that delighted the Arandina supporters, Madrid's Nacho Fernandez unintentionally put the ball into his own net in stoppage time, providing the minnows with a consolation goal.
Atletico Madrid Advances with Memphis Depay Brace
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid progressed to the next round with a 3-1 win against third-tier Lugo, featuring a standout performance from Memphis Depay. Atletico took the lead early with Angel Correa's goal, but Lugo equalized through Leandro Antonetti before halftime.
Diego Simeone's tactical move to introduce Antoine Griezmann at halftime paid off, as Atletico regained the lead in the second half through Memphis Depay. The striker added a second goal with a superb finish from Marcos Llorente's cross, securing Atletico's place in the Copa del Rey last 16.
Simeone praised his team's second-half performance, stating, "The team came out well after the break and, in general, had a good second half and were fair winners."
Real Betis Stumbles, Girona Springs Surprise
In other Copa del Rey action, Real Betis faced an upset as they were knocked out in a 1-0 defeat by Alaves. Meanwhile, surprise La Liga title challengers Girona secured a 2-0 victory over second-division side Elche, advancing to the next stage of the competition.
With Barcelona set to play against Barbastro on Sunday, the Copa del Rey continues to deliver thrilling football moments and unexpected outcomes.
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