Shocker in Spain: Albacete Stuns Real Madrid 3-2 in Historic Copa del Rey Upset!

In a stunning upset that has sent shockwaves through the football world, second-division side Albacete defeated Real Madrid 3-2 in the Round of 16 of the 2025-26 Spanish Copa del Rey, marking the first time Albacete has ever beaten the Spanish giants.

The match, played at Estadio Carlos Belmonte, saw Albacete take the lead through Javi Villar in the 42nd minute. Real Madrid's young talent Franco Mastantuono equalized just before halftime in the 45+3rd minute. Albacete regained the advantage with Jefté's strike in the 82nd minute, only for Gonzalo García to level the score again in the 90+1st minute. But in dramatic fashion, Jefté scored the winner in the 90+4th minute, securing a historic victory.[1][2]

This loss comes in the debut match for new Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa, whose severely weakened squad struggled against the determined hosts. Despite the defeat, Real Madrid showed fight with goals from their youth prospects, but defensive lapses proved costly.[1][4]

Albacete's starting lineup featured goalkeeper Lizoain, defenders Bernabeu, Neva, Villar Del Fraile, and Moreno, midfielders Aguado, Pacheco Ruiz, Meléndez, Martínez González, Lazo, and forwards Escriche. Key substitutes included Riki Rodríguez and Jefté, who emerged as the hero of the night.[1][2]

Football analysts are calling it an 'absolute stunner,' with ESPN FC highlighting the historic nature of Albacete's triumph and Real Madrid's early exit from the Copa del Rey.[3]

For Real Madrid fans, this marks a disappointing start to Arbeloa's tenure, raising questions about squad depth and preparation ahead of crucial La Liga and Champions League fixtures.[4]