New Delhi: Despite resting many of their top players, Real Madrid decisively defeated fourth-tier Deportivo Minera 5-0 on Monday, securing their place in the round of 16 of the Copa del Rey. Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and goalkeeper Ferland Mendy all started on the bench as Carlo Ancelotti gave 17-year-old Diego Aguardo his debut, who lined up alongside his elder brother Lorenzo.
Federico Valverde netted a volley five minutes into the game before Eduardo Camavinga doubled Madrid’s lead eight minutes later. Endrick came close to adding a third for Los Blancos before Valverde assisted Arda Güler, who struck in the 28th minute to make it 3-0 in the first half for Los Blancos.
WHAT A GOAL BY ARDA GULER ! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/zE0SiWHQr8
— Theo (@RMFC_Theo) January 6, 2025
As the second half began, Brahim Diaz hit the post before veteran Luka Modric netted the fourth and his first Copa del Rey goal. Guler then again added a fifth goal at the death after Fran Garcia teed him up, capping a fine night for the Turkish player.
👟↪️⚽ @LukaModric10#LaCopaMola pic.twitter.com/U1M4Bv9yWQ
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) January 6, 2025
After the match, Carlo Ancelotti praised his players’ professionalism and determination, emphasising that their motivation and commitment were key factors in the result. The Italian coach also admired the Croatian midfielder and called him a unique asset to football and Real Madrid.
This match was Carlo Ancelotti’s team’s first in the competition this season, as they missed the initial two rounds due to their involvement in the Spanish Super Cup. Real Madrid, with 20 Copa del Rey titles, faced elimination in the last 16 at the hands of Atletico Madrid.
Minera reached the last 32 after beating La Liga side Alavss in the previous round, but there was no way back against the Spanish giants Real Madrid, who have regained their form and now sit atop the La Liga standings with 43 points.
On Saturday, their arch-rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid also eased into the last 16 while holders Atletico Bilbao lost on penalties to third-tier Logrones. The draw for the next round is set to take place on Wednesday, and the fixtures are due to take place between January 14 and 16.
Real Madrid thrashed Deportivo Minera 5-0 in the Copa del Rey with goals from Valverde, Camavinga, Modric, and Guler, securing their spot in the round of 16. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
