Real Madrid suffered a stunning early exit from the Copa del Rey after losing 3-2 to second-division side Albacete on Wednesday night.
The result marked a difficult managerial debut for Alvaro Arbeloa, as Los Blancos were punished for defensive lapses despite dominating possession for long periods.
Madrid controlled much of the ball but struggled to convert that dominance into clear scoring chances.
Albacete, by contrast, showed efficiency in front of goal and capitalised on Madrid’s defensive errors to secure a historic victory.
The match began with Madrid fielding a mixed lineup of first-team players and academy prospects.
Early chances were limited, with Federico Valverde attempting efforts from distance that failed to trouble the goalkeeper, while Vinicius Jr was lively but inaccurate in key moments.
Albacete remained disciplined defensively and looked dangerous on the counterattack.
Their approach paid off in the 42nd minute when Javi Villar headed home from a corner, beating Andriy Lunin to give the hosts a deserved lead.
Madrid responded before halftime through a set-piece.
Franco Mastantuono found space inside the box and finished from close range to restore parity just before the break.
The second half saw Madrid push forward with more urgency.
Vinicius Jr continued to stretch the defense, while Arda Guler became more influential in central areas as Madrid searched for a winning goal.
Despite sustained pressure, it was Albacete who struck again late in the match.
A defensive breakdown saw Raul Asencio fail to clear the ball, allowing Jefte Betancor to react quickest and score with less than ten minutes remaining.
Late drama followed as Madrid equalised in the 91st minute.
Gonzalo Garcia rose well to head in a precise delivery, briefly keeping Madrid’s hopes alive.
However, Albacete delivered the decisive blow almost immediately.
Betancor scored his second of the night with a composed curling finish, sealing a famous victory and eliminating Madrid from the competition.
A final push from Los Blancos failed to produce another equaliser.
The result confirmed one of the biggest upsets of the Copa del Rey season and a disappointing start to Arbeloa’s tenure.
Real Madrid vs Albacete Copa del Rey Player Ratings
In goal, Andriy Lunin received a 6/10 after making several routine saves and having little chance with the goals conceded.
Defensively, David Jimenez was rated 7/10 despite a delayed reaction on Albacete’s second goal, while Raul Asencio endured a difficult night and received 4/10.
Dean Huijsen earned 6/10 for a mixed performance, and Fran Garcia was rated 7/10 for his pace and attacking support.
In midfield, Jorge Cestero was rated 6/10 for his distribution but struggled defensively in transitions.
Federico Valverde received 5/10 after an inconsistent display, while Arda Guler earned 6/10 following his involvement in both Madrid goals.
Up front, Franco Mastantuono scored but was otherwise quiet, earning 6/10.
Gonzalo Garcia received 7/10 for his late equaliser, and Vinicius Jr was also rated 7/10 after consistently testing his marker.
Among substitutes, David Alaba and Eduardo Camavinga both received 6/10, while Dani Carvajal was rated 4/10 after struggling defensively.
As manager, Alvaro Arbeloa was rated 3/10 following a performance that saw Madrid eliminated despite controlling possession.
This result matters as Real Madrid now exit the Copa del Rey earlier than expected, raising immediate questions after a managerial change and shifting focus back to domestic and European competitions.
FAQs: Real Madrid vs Albacete Copa del Rey player ratings
Q1: Who scored for Real Madrid against Albacete in the Copa del Rey?
- Franco Mastantuono
- Gonzalo Garcia
Q2: Who scored the winning goals for Albacete?
- Javi Villar
- Jefte Betancor (two goals)
Q3: Who was managing Real Madrid during the loss to Albacete?
- Alvaro Arbeloa
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