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Shockwaves in Spain: Real Madrid Humbled by Albacete
Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey journey ended in chaos as they were dumped out by second‑division side Albacete in a dramatic 3–2 defeat. For a club built on glory nights, this was a bitter embarrassment, and for Albacete, it was the stuff of dreams.
Madrid looked shaky from the start, unable to stamp their authority against a fearless Albacete side. Javi Villar’s header just before half‑time stunned the visitors, though Franco Mastantuono’s equaliser moments later gave Madrid hope.
The second half was pure drama. Jefté Betancor fired Albacete ahead in the 82nd minute, only for Gonzalo García to drag Madrid level in stoppage time. Just as extra time seemed inevitable, Jefté struck again in the 94th minute, sending the home crowd into delirium and Madrid crashing out.
For Álvaro Arbeloa, newly in charge, it was a nightmare debut. He admitted the loss was “painful,” as questions now swirl around his ability to steady the ship.
This wasn’t just a defeat—it was a statement. Albacete proved that passion and belief can topple giants, while Madrid were reminded that reputation alone doesn’t win matches.