Real Madrid’s first match following the dismissal of head coach Xabi Alonso ended in shock and embarrassment, as the Spanish giants suffered a stunning 3–2 defeat to second-tier Albacete in the Copa del Rey round of 16 on Wednesday.
The result marked a humiliating debut for former Real Madrid defender Álvaro Arbeloa, who was handed the reins after Alonso’s sacking. Arbeloa selected a largely second-string side, but his team struggled throughout the night against spirited lower-league opposition.
Substitute Jefte Betancor emerged as the hero for Albacete, scoring twice to cap a dramatic comeback and send the hosts into the quarter-finals at the expense of the 14-time European champions.
Real Madrid took the lead early, but Albacete responded with intensity and belief, eventually overwhelming their illustrious opponents. A thick fog that blanketed large portions of the stadium added to the surreal atmosphere of one of the competition’s biggest shocks in recent years.
Several key Real Madrid stars were absent, including Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Rodrygo, Thibaut Courtois, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, as Arbeloa opted to rotate heavily.
The new coach handed first-team opportunities to right-back David Jiménez and midfielder Jorge Cestero, both promoted from the club’s Castilla reserve side, while Vinícius Júnior led the attack as the central forward.
Despite moments of quality, Real Madrid lacked cohesion and control, allowing Albacete to capitalise on defensive lapses and secure a famous victory that will be remembered as one of the club’s greatest cup triumphs.
For Real Madrid, the defeat deepens scrutiny on the club during a turbulent transition period, while Albacete march on with renewed confidence and belief in their Copa del Rey dream.
By Prince Tuffuor
