Second-Tier Albacete Pull Off Stunning 3–2 Victory to Eliminate Real Madrid in Copa del Rey

Under foggy skies, Albacete stunned Real Madrid despite fielding a youthful and less experienced squad as Real rested several key stars. Veteran defender Javi Villar put the hosts ahead with a header, only for Real to equalize late in the first half. The second half saw Betancor give Albacete the lead before Real Madrid once again drew level in added time. However, Betancor struck again deep into stoppage time with a superb finish to secure a historic win for the visitors from LaLiga 2 and eliminate the powerhouse club from Spain’s premier cup competition.

Albacete Take Commanding Lead in First Half

The atmosphere at the Carlos Belmonte Stadium was electric as Albacete, positioned 17th in Spain’s second division, took the game to their illustrious opponents. In the 42nd minute, Javi Villar rose highest at a corner to head the hosts into the lead, sending the home crowd into jubilation. Their intensity and tactical discipline were evident as they frustrated Real Madrid’s attempts to build rhythm in attack.Just before halftime, Real Madrid responded when Franco Mastantuono, capitalizing on a corner, finished off a rebound to level the score. The quick reply set up a tense second half, with both sides creating opportunities and probing for the next breakthrough as the underdogs refused to bow to pressure. 

Drama Unfolds With Late Goals and Shock Winner

The second half saw both teams exchanging chances, but it was Albacete who struck next. In the 82nd minute, Betancor met a loose ball inside the box after a defensive lapse and volleyed powerfully past the Real Madrid goalkeeper to restore the hosts’ lead. Albacete’s organised approach and counter-attacking threat kept Real back on their heels as the game entered its final moments.

With time winding down, Gonzalo García brought Real Madrid level again with a towering header from a set piece in stoppage time, seemingly setting the stage for extra time. Yet, just minutes later in the dying moments, Betancor seized his chance on the counter. After his first shot was blocked, he reacted quickly to net a superb right-footed winner, sending the home fans into delirium and sealing a shock 3–2 win for Albacete. 

Historic Victory and Real Madrid Exit

The result marked the first time Albacete have ever beaten Real Madrid in competitive play, adding a remarkable chapter to the club’s history and underscoring the magic of cup football where underdogs can defy the odds. For Albacete, the win secures a place in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals and provides a massive boost to morale as they continue their campaign in both league and cup competitions.For Real Madrid, the loss represents a significant setback in what had already been a turbulent period. Manager Álvaro Arbeloa, in his first match in charge following Xabi Alonso’s departure, saw his side struggle to assert control despite resting key first-team players. The defeat raises questions about squad depth and tactical coherence as they now turn their focus back to domestic league play and other upcoming challenges. 

Looking Ahead

Albacete will now prepare for their quarterfinal clash, buoyed by confidence and belief after one of the most memorable nights in the club’s recent history. Their fans — and neutrals alike — will savour the giant-killing performance that saw them topple one of world football’s elite.Meanwhile, Real Madrid must regroup quickly. With the Copa del Rey campaign over, the club will be under pressure to bounce back in La Liga and in European competitions as they seek to steady the ship following a remarkable and unexpected cup exit.