SHOCK: Real falls to a second-division team, Arbeloa’s debut turns disastrous

Real Madrid shocked everyone with a painful 2-3 loss against Albacete in the Copa del Rey, marking a disastrous first match for new manager Álvaro Arbeloa.

Facing Albacete, who currently sit 17th out of 22 in Spain’s second division, Real Madrid was expected to easily secure progression. However, the reality on the pitch was completely different. In the first half, the visitors’ attacking stars struggled, repeatedly thwarted by the home side’s disciplined and determined defense.

The turning point came in the 42nd minute when Albacete capitalized on a set-piece. Villar rose high to deliver a precise header, giving the hosts the lead to the astonishment of Real Madrid supporters. However, the Royal Club responded just in time. In first-half stoppage time, Mastantuono scored an equalizer from a corner kick, helping Real avoid a disadvantageous position.

After the break, the situation remained largely unchanged. Without Mbappe, Real Madrid’s attacks lacked speed and creativity. They dominated possession but rushed their play, while Albacete deliberately sat back, waiting for mistakes from the visitors’ defense to strike decisively.

In the 82nd minute, that mistake happened. A hesitant clearance by a Real defender unintentionally created an opportunity for Betancor. The substitute unleashed a volley that bounced on the ground, putting Albacete ahead 2-1 and forcing Real Madrid to take greater risks in the final minutes.

Drama peaked in the first minute of added time when Gonzalo Garcia powerfully headed in to level the score at 2-2 for Real Madrid. However, the visitors’ joy was short-lived. In the 95th minute, Albacete launched a swift counterattack and Betancor completed his brace, sealing a stunning 3-2 victory.

After the match, coach Álvaro Arbeloa took full responsibility for the loss. He emphasized: “If anyone must be held accountable, it’s me, as I made the decisions on the starting lineup, our playing style, and personnel changes.”

The manager also added: “I can only thank the players for the warm welcome they gave me and for helping them recover both physically and mentally.”

In the end, Albacete caused an upset by defeating Real Madrid 3-2, eliminating the Royal Club bitterly from the Copa del Rey. Notably, this defeat came shortly after a loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup, highlighting the turbulent period Real Madrid is currently enduring.