Albacete vs. Real Madrid: Copa del Rey Preview and Predictions

Real Madrid faces a pivotal match against Albacete in the Copa del Rey round of 16. This encounter occurs just two days after the resignation of manager Xabi Alonso. His departure followed a disappointing loss in the Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona. Álvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the new manager, leading Real Madrid into this crucial fixture with minimal preparation time.

Match Details: Albacete vs. Real Madrid

This Copa del Rey match is vital for Real Madrid, with an exit in the round of 16 considered a major failure. Albacete, on the other hand, is eager to create history by advancing to the quarterfinals for the first time in 31 years.

• Date: Wednesday, January 14
• Kick-off Time: 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT / 8 p.m. GMT
• Location: Estadio Carlos Belmonte, Albacete, Spain

Team Form and Background

Currently, Albacete struggles in La Liga2, sitting just above the relegation zone. However, they recently pulled off an impressive victory against Celta Vigo in the previous round of the Copa del Rey. This win has given them momentum heading into the match against a team with a storied history in the tournament.

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, Albacete has not been able to secure a win against Real Madrid. In their last five encounters:

• Albacete: 0 wins
• Real Madrid: 5 wins
• Last Meeting: Albacete 1–2 Real Madrid (April 3, 2005)

Albacete’s Team News

Albacete’s coach, Alberto González, rested several key players in their last game to prepare for this fixture. Their formation will likely shift to a back-five to counter Real Madrid’s attacking prowess.

• Key Player: Jesús Vallejo, a former Real Madrid player, scored a vital goal in the previous round.
• Top Scorer: Agus Medina leads Albacete with six goals this season.

Predicted Lineup for Albacete

Albacete is expected to field a 5-4-1 formation:

• Goalkeeper: Lizoaín
• Defenders: Aguado, Moreno, Vallejo, Neva, Gómez
• Midfielders: Valverde, Pacheco, Rodríguez, Morcillo
• Forward: Medina

Real Madrid’s Team Updates

With a new manager at the helm, Real Madrid is eager to rebound from their recent defeat. Key players Kylian Mbappé and Rodrygo did not travel with the team. However, the squad still features significant talent.

• Expected Formation: 4-3-3
• Notable Players: Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and David Alaba

Predicted Lineup for Real Madrid

Real Madrid’s likely formation includes:

• Goalkeeper: Lunin
• Defenders: Jiménez, Asencio, Alaba, García
• Midfield: Güler, Camavinga, Ceballos
• Forwards: Mastantuono, García, Vinicius Jr.

Match Prediction

Despite the mismatch in quality, Albacete will be highly motivated in front of their home crowd. Real Madrid must respond positively to their recent challenges. With a new coach and a compelling lineup, they are poised to secure a comfortable victory. The prediction for the match is Albacete 0–3 Real Madrid.