Real Madrid Eliminated by Albacete in Copa del Rey Round of 16 Under New Coach Arbeloa

Real Madrid was eliminated from the Copa del Rey Round of 16 after a 3-2 loss to second-division club Albacete on January 15, marking the debut of new coach Álvaro Arbeloa. Despite leading historically and fielding some B-team players while resting key stars, Madrid struggled to create chances. Albacete secured victory with a stoppage-time goal by Jefte Betancor, advancing to their first quarter-final since 1994-95. Arbeloa, a former Madrid player and youth coach, replaced Xabi Alonso earlier this week.