Real Madrid Set to Face Talavera in Copa del Rey Showdown

Real Madrid is gearing up for its Copa del Rey debut this Wednesday, taking on Talavera de la Reina in the Round of 16. The match kicks off at 21:00 CET and will be available for streaming on DAZN. This clash presents a significant challenge for Talavera, currently competing in Segunda B, Spain’s fourth division, where they share a league with Real Madrid’s reserve team, RM Castilla. Notably, the young Canteranos of Arbeloa managed to secure a 1-0 victory against Talavera just a month ago, highlighting the stark contrast in caliber between the teams as Madrid’s first team steps onto the pitch.

Despite several absences in coach Xabi Alonso‘s squad due to injuries and suspensions, there are opportunities for players sidelined in La Liga, such as Carreras and Endrick, to feature prominently in this cup tie. The expected defensive lineup includes Carreras and Huijsen at center-back, Asencio on the right flank, and Fran García on the left. In goal, Andriy Lunin is anticipated to take his place between the posts.

Midfield and Attack: A Tactical Overview

The midfield is likely to see significant rotation as Alonso seeks to balance experience with youth. Canterano Thiago Pitarch may earn his first start alongside Dani Ceballos and Arda Güler. Up front, Franco Mastantuono and Endrick are expected to lead the attack. The tactical decision facing Alonso revolves around whether to deploy Rodrygo on the left wing—capitalizing on his recent form with two goals in as many matches—or to opt for Kylian Mbappé, who is chasing Cristiano Ronaldo‘s record for most goals scored in a calendar year.

Projected Lineups

The probable starting XI for Real Madrid features Lunin; Asencio, Huijsen, Carreras, Fran García; Ceballos, Pitarch, Güler; Mastantuono, Rodrygo (or Mbappé), Endrick. Meanwhile, Talavera is set to field González; Gallardo, Alvaro López, Sergi Molina, Cuenca; Montero, Doncel; Pedro Capó, Arroyo; Valen Gómez; Di Renzo.

As the match approaches, anticipation builds around how Real Madrid will perform against a lower-tier opponent. Will they deliver a dominant display or face unexpected challenges? Fans eagerly await what promises to be an intriguing encounter.