Real Madrid orchestrated a commanding performance against fourth-tier Deportivo Minera, securing a resounding 5-0 victory in the Copa del Rey round of 32. The match, played on Monday, saw the Spanish champions dominate from the outset, with Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Arda Guler finding the net in the first half. Veteran midfielder Luka Modric added a fourth goal in the second half, before Guler completed his brace to seal a comfortable passage to the last 16. The lopsided victory allowed coach Carlo Ancelotti to rest key players ahead of the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia, with Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior making second-half appearances. This emphatic win underscores Real Madrid’s depth and their intent to compete on multiple fronts this season.
The match unfolded with a predictable pattern of Real Madrid dominance. Valverde opened the scoring early on, volleying home from the back post. Camavinga doubled the lead shortly thereafter, heading in from close range. Despite several other promising chances, including one for young Brazilian prospect Endrick, it was Guler who extended the lead further, his shot taking a deflection before finding the back of the net. The first half ended with Real Madrid firmly in control, the scoreline reflecting their complete dominance of the lower-league opposition. The game served as a valuable opportunity for squad rotation and for some of the less-frequent starters to gain match fitness and contribute to the team’s success.
The second half continued in much the same vein. Brahim Diaz nearly added a fourth goal early on, striking the post. However, it was veteran midfielder Luka Modric who eventually found the net, curling in a delightful effort to further extend Real Madrid’s lead. With the victory all but assured, the focus shifted to managing game time and avoiding injuries. Young Turkish playmaker Guler capped off a memorable night by adding his second goal, finishing with aplomb after being set up by Fran Garcia. This brace showcased Guler’s potential and his ability to contribute meaningfully to the team’s attacking prowess.
Real Madrid’s comfortable victory allowed Ancelotti to utilize his squad depth, providing valuable minutes to players who haven’t featured as regularly in the starting lineup. The decision to rest key players like Mbappe and Vinicius Junior underscores the importance of the upcoming Spanish Super Cup, a competition Real Madrid are keen to win. The match also provided a platform for younger players like Endrick and Guler to gain valuable experience playing alongside established stars. This strategic rotation will be crucial as the season progresses and the fixture list becomes increasingly congested.
The Copa del Rey campaign serves as another avenue for Real Madrid to pursue silverware this season. While the primary focus remains on La Liga and the Champions League, the Copa del Rey provides an opportunity to test the squad’s depth and give younger players valuable competitive experience. The convincing victory over Deportivo Minera sends a clear message to their rivals that they are taking the competition seriously and are determined to progress as far as possible.
The draw for the next round of the Copa del Rey is scheduled for Wednesday, with the matches taking place between January 14-16. Real Madrid will be eagerly awaiting their next opponent as they look to continue their quest for a domestic cup triumph. This match, alongside the comfortable victories of Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, and even the close call for Athletic Bilbao, highlights the unpredictable nature of cup competitions and the importance of taking every opponent seriously, regardless of their league standing. The competition is heating up, and Real Madrid are well-positioned for a deep run.
