Real Madrid could have comfortably secured their victory against Talavera much earlier, as they had opportunities to extend their lead to 3-0 or even 4-0.
However, after scoring twice, they maintained their position and inadvertently allowed the hosts to gain momentum, which resulted in a goal from Talavera in the 80th minute.
Ultimately, the match ended 3-2 in favor of Los Blancos, but the scoreline hardly reflected the true nature of the game.
Despite this, the team walks away with the victory and will now focus on their final league match of the year before the Christmas break.
Alonso’s Thoughts
Xabi Alonso expressed contentment with his team’s performance. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
After the tense win, Alonso noted that tightly contested matches are common in the Copa del Rey and that he was not overly concerned.
“These situations happen in cup matches, and they have occurred for other teams as well,” he remarked. “After we led 3-1, conceding a free kick allowed them to pull it back to 3-2.”
“Talavera found new energy, driven by their fans,” he added.
Despite the close score, Alonso maintained that his team dominated the first half and should have closed the match earlier.
“We controlled the game well in the first half and took the lead, but not extending it to 3-0 kept Talavera in the game, which became evident in the end,” he explained. “The second half was hard-fought. We aimed for a third goal and created chances, but it didn’t materialize.”
“It was an exciting cup tie. This competition is unique, and our objective was achieved: moving on to the next round,” he concluded.
Alonso emphasized that their primary aim was progression and expressed satisfaction with that achievement, despite some inconsistency and a need for greater stability during matches.
“We cannot become complacent. It’s essential that we learn to finish matches decisively and show more maturity,” he stated.
Mbappe’s Impact
Kylian Mbappe netted two goals during the match. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
As always, Kylian Mbappe was instrumental for Real Madrid, scoring two crucial goals, which drew praise from the manager.
“His decisive contributions with those two goals highlight his innate scoring ability,” Alonso remarked. “The third goal was pivotal, which is why we kept him on the field and started him in the game.”
Real Madrid academy talent David Jimenez made his first-team debut as a right-back against Talavera, while Jorge Cestero also debuted in midfield. Reflecting on the young players, Alonso commented,
“I know them well from Castilla. They are playing impressively, just like Valdepenas, Thiago [Pitarch], and Joan [Martinez].”
“David performed steadily for 90 minutes. He enjoys getting involved and linking up well on the pitch.”
“Jorge possesses immense potential and is developing well this year, gaining valuable minutes. He’s close to breaking through,” he added.
Alonso also praised Endrick for his impactful performance.
“He was very active and dynamic, seamlessly changing pace and finding space in tight spots. You wouldn’t know he hadn’t played much recently. Congratulations to him for a solid outing,” he noted.
When asked about areas for improvement, Alonso stated,
“Our sole focus is on Sevilla this Saturday. We need the three points to foster a positive atmosphere and finish the year strong.”
“With a break coming up, we will continue to enhance our consistency and extend our periods of high performance during matches,” he added.
General Praise
Alonso admired the quality of his players. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
When questioned about whether Mbappe is the only effective forward on the team, Alonso responded,
“The statistics speak for themselves, but Rodrygo has scored in both of the last two matches, and we need more players who possess that finishing ability. There were definitely more scoring opportunities available to us.”
In closing, Alonso acknowledged Talavera’s competitiveness and their strong showing.
“As I anticipated, it was a very special match for them and their supporters. We walked into a fantastic atmosphere, and they played with competitiveness and pride,” he said. “I commend them; they were excellent opponents.”
Finally, he explained his decision to field four forwards in the starting lineup for a Copa del Rey match.
“We needed players who would be defensively responsible. From the 10th minute onward, we were stable defensively and managed the game effectively. They executed our game plan well,” he remarked.
Source: Real Madrid website