A night that nobody in Albacete will forget
Spanish cup football has a habit of humbling giants, and on a cold, fog-filled night in Castilla-La Mancha, Real Madrid were the latest to learn that lesson the hard way.
The 15-time European champions were dumped out of the Copa del Rey after a stunning 3-2 defeat to Albacete, a side battling near the bottom of Spain’s second division. It was a result that sent shockwaves across Spanish football and sparked instant debate online.
Read more: Alonso era ends as Real Madrid pull plug after Super Cup collapse
Arbeloa’s debut turns sour
This was meant to be a fresh start. Just days after losing the Spanish Super Cup final to Barcelona, Madrid president Florentino Perez made a bold call, replacing Xabi Alonso with club legend Alvaro Arbeloa.
Instead of a revival, Arbeloa’s first night in charge turned into a harsh reality check. With Kylian Mbappe missing and several regulars rested, Madrid looked disjointed from the opening whistle at the Carlos Belmonte Stadium.
Arbeloa handed debuts to reserve team players Jorge Cestero and David Jimenez, a decision that underlined how seriously Madrid underestimated the task ahead.
Fog, corners and a growing sense of trouble
As thick fog rolled across the pitch, visibility dropped and so did Madrid’s control. Chances were scarce, frustration grew, and the hosts sensed something special was possible.
Albacete struck first when Javi Villar slipped free at a corner to nod home, sending the home crowd into disbelief. Madrid responded just before the break through teenage talent Franco Mastantuono, who capitalised on a corner of their own to restore parity.
It felt like a warning sign rather than a turning point.
Jefte steps into the spotlight
After the interval, Albacete stopped defending their lead and started believing in it. Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin could only delay the inevitable as Jefte Betancor struck in the 82nd minute, pouncing on a loose clearance and firing past Lunin.
When Gonzalo Garcia headed home in the 91st minute, many assumed Madrid would muscle their way through in extra time. Instead, Albacete had one last twist left.
Jefte produced a moment that will live forever in club folklore, lifting a stunning finish over Lunin deep into stoppage time to seal a famous victory.
Social media reacts and questions begin
Spanish football social media erupted almost instantly. Albacete fans celebrated one of the greatest nights in their club’s history, while Madrid supporters questioned squad depth, leadership and the timing of another coaching change.
Phrases like “classic Copa chaos” and “never underestimate cup football” trended as neutrals revelled in the drama.
What this loss really means for Madrid
Cup upsets happen, but this one stings deeper. Coming days after a Super Cup defeat to Barcelona, the loss raises uncomfortable questions about Madrid’s direction and the pressure now facing Arbeloa.
For Albacete, it was more than a win. It was proof that belief, organisation and a fearless approach can still topple football royalty.
On a foggy night in Albacete, Spanish football reminded the world why the Copa del Rey remains beautifully unpredictable.
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Source: Super Sport
Featured Image Source: Albacete FC on X
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