Holders of Copa del Rey Real Madrid’s 3-1 victory against fourth-tier Arandina on the road on Saturday night secured their spot in the tournament’s round of 16.
Even though they had over 80% of the possession and their opponent was unable to muster a shot on goal, the much-changed Madrid team made light work of the first half and went into halftime down 0-0.
After Brahim Diaz was judged to have been fouled within the area, the referee awarded a penalty kick to Madrid in the 54th minute, giving them the lead. A minute later, Brahim doubled Madrid’s advantage, all but sealing the match.
In injury time, Nacho threw the ball in his own net, giving Arandina a late consolation goal after Rodrigo scored a third in the final minutes.
After a string of injuries throughout the first half of the season, Arda Guler was eventually allowed to make his debut, which was another positive development for Real Madrid.
During a day when there were no shocks in the Cup, Girona also advanced to the last 16 with a 2-0 victory away from Elche.
Girona’s improved effectiveness in front of goal was rewarded by Daley Blind and Yan Couto against a rival team that had 22 shots but was unable to score.
Atletico Madrid defeated RFEF I (third division) Lugo 3-1 on the road. Angel Correa gave Diego Simeone’s team the lead in the second minute of play. Memphis Depay scored twice in the victory.
Carlos Benavidez’s slide-rule goal in the 56th minute against 2022 Cup champions Betis gave Deportivo Alaves the victory in the only all-top flight draw. Betis was unable to respond to the goal.
In other matches, Rayo Vallecano defeated Huesca 2-0 in overtime despite leading late, while Getafe defeated Espanyol 1-0 on the road.
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