While the spotlight is primarily on the ongoing turmoil at Real Madrid, who have been knocked out of two competitions within just four days and are in the midst of a managerial change, Albacete deserves significant recognition for their stunning victory in the Copa del Rey. The team from Segunda División made history at the Carlos Belmonte by scoring nearly at the end of the match, dramatically overcoming Los Blancos.
This matchup was the first since 2005 when Real Madrid claimed a 2-1 victory; previous encounters in 2004 saw Madrid dominate with a 6-1 win at the Bernabeu. Historically, the two teams have met 14 times, with Real Madrid winning 11 and drawing three. Albacete had only netted three goals in those contests, a figure they doubled on Wednesday night.
Image via Diario AS
Advertisement
Albacete manager Alberto Gonzalez predicted victory
Pre-match images from the Albacete dressing room show manager Alberto Gonzalez confidently forecasting a win for his team. His motivational speech included a poignant reminder to his players:
“Gentlemen, Albacete has never defeated Real Madrid. But today is different; this day was meant for us.”
Clearly, Gonzalez’s motivating words had the desired impact.
‘Without Barcelona and Real Madrid, who will go to Saudi?’
Meanwhile, Racing Santander’s manager, Jose Alberto, has expressed concerns over his team’s chances of upsetting Barcelona on Thursday at El Sardinero. In remarks to Cadena Cope, as quoted by MD, he noted that the Spanish Supercup was designed for the inclusion of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Advertisement
“It’s significantly more challenging, that’s for sure. Without Barça and Madrid, who will represent us in Saudi Arabia next year? The champion and the runner-up will emerge, and we’ll see who that is. We know how this operates.”
Nevertheless, since the top two teams in La Liga qualify for the Supercopa, it appears the classic rivals would still be part of the competition. Depending on the draw, they might face off in the semi-finals instead of the final.