Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey campaign ended in humiliating fashion, courtesy of a gritty 1-0 win by Albasete that will be remembered for years. The Segunda Division outfit turned the Carlos Belmonte into a fortress, ousting the 14-time champions in a display of sheer determination.
Ancelotti fielded a strong side, but Albasete’s game plan was flawless. They absorbed pressure masterfully, launching dangerous breaks that tested Thibaut Courtois. The breakthrough arrived via Carro’s poacher’s goal, rewarding their patience after 73 tense minutes.
Madrid’s frustrations boiled over with 22 attempts on goal yielding nothing, thanks to Fuoli’s man-of-the-match performance and crucial blocks. The final whistle triggered pandemonium among 15,000 Albasete faithful, who had witnessed history.
For Real Madrid, this is a wake-up call ahead of crucial fixtures. Albasete, meanwhile, rides a wave of euphoria, with promotion hopes invigorated by this financial and psychological boost. In the unpredictable world of cup football, giants can indeed tumble.