Knocked out by second-tier team, Real Madrid's chance to add Copa del Rey trophy ended.

Real Madrid's ambition to add another Copa del Rey or King's Cup trophy was thwarted by a second-tier club. Los Blancos were eliminated from the King's Cup after a dramatic 2-3 away defeat to Albacete in the Round of 16 at the Estadio Carlos Belmonte early Thursday morning WIB, January 15, 2026. 

This defeat was painful not only because the opponent came from a lower division, but also due to Albacete's goal in the final minute of the match.

Madrid's two goals in this match were scored by Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo Garcia. Albacete secured the victory thanks to goals from Javi Villar and Jefte Betancor, who contributed two goals.

This result sends Albacete to the Quarter-Finals of the King's Cup, scheduled for February 3-5, 2025. The Draw will take place on January 19, 2025.

On the other hand, with this failure, Real Madrid will now only compete in the Spanish League and the Champions League.

Dominance Without Sharpness, Madrid Loses Momentum

Madrid actually dominated from the start of the match, controlling possession and continuously pressing the home defense. However, this dominance did not translate into effectiveness.

Instead, Albacete broke the deadlock before halftime, capitalizing on one crucial moment amid the pressure. Javi Villar's goal made it 1-0 in the 42nd minute.

Madrid responded quickly before the break by taking advantage of a rebound situation in the penalty box.
Franco Mastantuono pounced on the rebound in minute 45+3. The score changed to 1-1.

Late Match Drama Crushes Madrid's Hopes

When the match seemed headed for a Draw, drama unfolded in the final 10 minutes. Albacete went ahead again through a strike by Jefte Betancor, converting another rebound. The score changed to 2-1 in the 82nd minute.

The squad under the guidance of Alvaro Arbeloa struck back. Arda Guler's corner kick was converted into a goal by Gonzalo Garcia. The score was level at 2-2 in minute 90+1.

However, Madrid's hopes of taking the match to extra time vanished just three minutes later.

Albacete secured the victory after Jefte Betancor scored his second goal in minute 90+4. The 3-2 scoreline for Albacete remained unchanged until the final whistle.