REAL MADRID ELIMINATED FROM COPA DEL REY
On 14th January 2026, Real Madrid suffered a shocking exit from the Copa del Rey after a 3-2 defeat against Albacete. The result stunned fans and analysts alike, as the Spanish giants, known for their dominance in both domestic and European football, failed to secure a win against a team widely seen as the underdogs.
This defeat comes just days after Real Madrid sacked their former head coach, Xabi Alonso, in a surprising move that sent shockwaves through the football world. Taking over the reins was Alvaro Arbeloa, stepping in as the new head coach and trying to steady the ship in a turbulent period. Despite his experience and familiarity with the club, Arbeloa faced an uphill battle as he guided the team through one of the toughest matches of the season.
Real Madrid was further handicapped by the absence of Kylian Mbappé, a key player whose attacking prowess could have made a difference in a tightly contested match. Many fans and commentators have wondered if Mbappé’s presence on the pitch might have turned the tide, helping Madrid secure a much-needed victory. Without him, the team struggled to break through Albacete’s organized defense and capitalize on their chances.
The match itself was intense. Albacete came into the game with confidence, taking the lead and refusing to give Madrid any breathing room. Real Madrid fought back valiantly, scoring to equalize, but Albacete showed remarkable resilience, scoring two more goals to clinch the win. The match highlighted the unpredictability of football and the fact that even elite teams like Real Madrid can stumble under pressure.
The defeat also raises bigger questions about the current state of the club. Some fans have started to ask, “Is Real Madrid dying?”, especially remembering that the team had also lost an El Clasico match just days before. Consecutive losses of this magnitude put the club’s strategy, player form, and managerial decisions under the microscope. While the team has faced challenges before, the combination of coaching changes, key player absences, and unexpected defeats makes this period one of the most difficult in recent history.
From a tactical standpoint, Real Madrid struggled to find cohesion on the pitch. The team created opportunities, but Albacete’s defense remained organized and disciplined, effectively blocking many of Madrid’s attacks. Arbeloa, at the touchlines, made several substitutions and tried different formations, but the team could not find the rhythm needed to turn the game around. The pressure of expectations weighed heavily on both players and coaching staff.
Fans expressed their frustration and disappointment across social media platforms. Many pointed to the lack of Mbappé, while others criticized the team’s inability to adapt quickly under a new coach. The debate over the club’s future is already heating up, with supporters and analysts alike questioning whether Real Madrid can regain its dominant form in Spain and Europe.
Despite the setback, the club has a history of resilience. Real Madrid has faced tough periods before and has always managed to bounce back stronger. Lessons from this defeat, including the importance of maintaining squad depth, strategic planning, and mental toughness, will be crucial for the remainder of the season.
In conclusion, the 3-2 defeat to Albacete on 14th January 2026 marks a turbulent moment in Real Madrid’s season. The combination of a recent coaching change, the absence of key players like Mbappé, and prior losses, including an El Clasico defeat, has raised serious questions about the team’s current state. However, football is never static, and Real Madrid’s legacy is built on resilience, talent, and a winning mentality. Fans will be hoping that this defeat becomes a turning point, motivating the team to bounce back stronger in La Liga and European competitions.
