Real Madrid Face Talavera in High-Stakes Copa del Rey Clash

Real Madrid travel to face third-tier CF Talavera tonight in the Copa del Rey Round of 32. The match kicks off at 9:00 PM CET at Talavera’s Estadio El Prado. Manager Xabi Alonso has named a strong squad for the single-leg knockout tie.

This is a classic David vs. Goliath cup fixture. Madrid are the record 20-time Copa del Rey champions, while Talavera fights in the third division.

Strong Madrid Squad Eyes Comfortable Passage

Despite eight first-team absences, Alonso’s selection shows respect for the competition. Star striker Kylian Mbappé starts alongside young talents Arda Güler and Jude Endrick. According to Marca, this attacking lineup signals Madrid’s intent to avoid any upset.

The team’s recent away form is formidable. They are unbeaten in four trips, scoring ten goals. This confidence will be key on a potentially tricky small-pitch venue.

Goalkeeper Lunin gets a start behind a rotated defense. The focus is on controlling the game early and securing a place in the next round efficiently.

Talavera’s Historic Opportunity for an Upset

For Talavera, this is arguably the biggest match in club history. Managed by Alejandro Sandroni, they have already overcome Málaga in this season’s tournament. That shock victory proves their capability on a big night.

Their home stadium, El Prado, holds just 5,000 fans. That intimate atmosphere could become a cauldron of support. They will look to frustrate Madrid’s stars and seize any rare chance that comes their way.

However, their league form is a concern. They sit near the bottom of their third-division group. Competing with Madrid’s world-class quality for 90 minutes presents a monumental challenge.

Alonso Stresses Serious Approach to Cup Football

In his pre-match comments, manager Xabi Alonso dismissed any notion of taking the tie lightly. He emphasized the Copa del Rey’s importance to the club’s history and the season’s objectives. This mentality is reflected in his team selection.

A comfortable victory would allow for player rotation later in the competition. It also maintains positive momentum before a return to La Liga action this weekend. The fixture congestion makes a professional performance vital.

The financial windfall for a club like Talavera is significant. But their primary goal is sporting glory. Creating a historic cup upset against the Spanish giants would be a story told for generations.

All signs point to a routine Real Madrid victory, but the magic of the cup always allows for hope. The Spanish giants must navigate the Talavera challenge with focus to advance as expected.

Thought you’d like to know

What time does Real Madrid vs Talavera start?

The match kicks off at 9:00 PM local time in Spain (CET) on Wednesday night. It is a single-game elimination tie in the Copa del Rey Round of 32.

Is Kylian Mbappé playing against Talavera?

Yes, according to confirmed lineups, Kylian Mbappé is in the starting eleven for Real Madrid. Manager Xabi Alonso has selected a strong attacking lineup for the cup match.

What division is Talavera in?

CF Talavera de la Reina plays in the Primera Federación, which is the third tier of Spanish football. They are currently near the bottom of their group in that league.

Have Real Madrid ever played Talavera before?

This is a very rare meeting. There is no record of a competitive first-team match between Real Madrid and CF Talavera in recent history, making this a unique cup fixture.

Why is this Copa del Rey match important?

For Madrid, it’s a step toward winning another trophy. For Talavera, it’s a historic payday and a chance for eternal glory by defeating one of the world’s biggest clubs.

Where can I watch the Real Madrid Talavera game?

The match is being broadcast on domestic Spanish television. International viewers should check with their local sports broadcasting partners for Copa del Rey rights.