Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey Opener: Mbappé and Endrick Lead Charge Against Talavera

Real Madrid begins its Copa del Rey campaign tonight against third-division side CF Talavera de la Reina. The match kicks off at 9:00 PM CET at Talavera’s Estadio El Prado. Manager Xabi Alonso faces the challenge of navigating the tournament’s single-elimination format while rotating his squad.

With key players absent, the spotlight turns to star forwards Kylian Mbappé and young talent Endrick. Madrid is the overwhelming favorite but must avoid a historic cup upset on the road.

Alonso Navigates Injury Crisis with Strategic Rotation

Real Madrid enters this match missing 11 first-team players due to injury. According to team reports, key absences include goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and defender Antonio Rüdiger. This forces Alonso to rely on squad depth and youth.

Kylian Mbappé is expected to start to maintain sharpness. Brazilian phenom Endrick will likely partner him, seeking his first Copa del Rey goal. This lineup provides firepower while allowing other regulars like Vinícius Júnior to rest.

Midfielder Arda Güler and forward Rodrygo are also in contention for starts. The team’s depth will be thoroughly tested in this fixture.

Talavera’s Daunting Task Against Spanish Giants

CF Talavera de la Reina plays in Spain’s Primera Federación, the third tier. Their cup run so far has been a proud achievement for the club. Facing the La Liga champions represents a monumental challenge, however.

The home side will rely on a fervent local crowd for support. Their game plan will focus on defensive organization and hoping for a rare counter-attacking chance. The quality gap between the squads is vast on paper.

For Madrid, the match is a must-win to advance, but also a platform for returning players. Young Argentine midfielder Franco Mastantuono is back in the squad after recovering from injury. His minutes will be managed carefully.

Broadcast Details and Tournament Stakes

Fans in Spain can watch the match live on TVE’s free-to-air broadcast. International viewers can stream the action on ESPN+. The winner will advance directly to the Round of 16 draw.

The Copa del Rey is known for producing dramatic upsets. Alonso has emphasized respecting the opponent in all pre-match comments. Madrid’s last early exit from the competition serves as a cautionary tale.

Real Madrid aims for a straightforward victory in the Copa del Rey tonight. A win secures their place in the next round and builds momentum.

Info at your fingertips

What time does Real Madrid vs Talavera start?

The match kicks off at 9:00 PM Central European Time. That’s 3:00 PM Eastern Time in the United States. Local time in Talavera is the same as Madrid.

Who is injured for Real Madrid?

The club reports 11 players are unavailable. Key absentees include Thibaut Courtois, Éder Militão, and Antonio Rüdiger. Several other regulars are being rested for league duty.

Will Kylian Mbappé play against Talavera?

Yes, Mbappé is expected to start. Manager Xabi Alonso wants his top scorer to maintain rhythm. His presence shows Madrid is not taking the match lightly.

What division does CF Talavera de la Reina play in?

Talavera competes in the Primera Federación. This is the third level of Spanish football. They are currently mid-table in their group.

Is the Copa del Rey a single-game elimination?

Yes, from this round onward. The Round of 32, Round of 16, and quarter-finals are all one-legged ties. Only the semi-finals use a two-legged format.