Albacete Stuns Real Madrid in Copa del Rey Upset

Copa del Rey Exit for Real Madrid

Real Madrid's journey in the Copa del Rey concluded with a disappointing 3-2 defeat against Albacete in the round of 16. The second-tier team achieved a remarkable victory, with Jefte Betancor netting two goals, as reported on the Real Madrid official site.

First Half Highlights

In the first half, Albacete took the lead in the 42nd minute when Javi Villar scored with a header from a corner, expertly delivered by Jose Lazo. Just before halftime, Real Madrid equalized through Franco Mastantuono, who reacted quickly to a rebound after Dean Huijsen's header was parried by Albacete's goalkeeper, Raul Lizoain, following a corner from Arda Guler.

Intense Second Half with a Last-Minute Twist

The match was tied 1-1 at halftime, and after the break, Real Madrid dominated possession. They nearly took the lead from a set piece when Arda Guler's free-kick in the 68th minute saw Gonzalo's header just miss the target. Despite debut performances from Palacios and Manuel Angel, Albacete struck again in the 82nd minute with Jefte scoring to make it 2-1.

With only ten minutes remaining, Real Madrid managed to equalize in stoppage time after a flurry of corners. Arda Guler delivered another ball into the box, and Gonzalo scored with a stunning header.

As the match seemed headed for extra time, Jefte struck again in the final moments, securing Albacete's place in the next round.