Albacete Balompié welcome European giants Real Madrid to Castilla-La Mancha as the two sides clash in the Copa del Rey Round of 16. With a knockout spot on the line, this midweek cup tie offers classic giant-vs-underdog intrigue.
Match Details: Albacete vs Real Madrid
- Competition: Copa del Rey – Round of 16
- Date: Wednesday, January 14
- Kickoff Time: 3:00 PM (ET)
- Venue: Estadio Carlos Belmonte
- Surface: Grass
- Capacity: 17,524
How to Watch Albacete vs Real Madrid Live
Fans in the United States can watch the match live via Fubo, with coverage available on ESPN Select through the platform. Streaming access makes this Copa del Rey showdown easily accessible for international audiences.
Weather Conditions at Kickoff
The forecast in Albacete calls for partly cloudy skies and temperatures around 43°F, conditions that may favor a slower, more physical contest—especially important for a lower-division side looking to disrupt Real Madrid’s rhythm.
Team Form and Recent Results
Albacete Balompié
Albacete enter this fixture on a mixed run of form, with recent draws and narrow defeats highlighting both their resilience and inconsistency. Playing at home in front of a packed Carlos Belmonte crowd gives them a rare opportunity to test themselves against elite opposition.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid arrive in strong form, fresh off high-scoring wins and statement performances in domestic and European competition. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad depth allows Los Blancos to rotate while still fielding a lineup capable of dominating possession and creating chances.
Tactical Outlook
- Albacete are expected to defend deep, compress space between the lines, and rely on counterattacks or set pieces to threaten.
- Real Madrid will look to control tempo, stretch the pitch, and use their technical superiority to break down a compact defense.
Early goals could open the floodgates, but a disciplined Albacete performance may force Madrid into a tense, grinding contest.
What’s at Stake
With the Copa del Rey decided by single-elimination, there is no margin for error. For Albacete, this is a historic chance to eliminate Spain’s most decorated club. For Real Madrid, anything less than progression would be a major upset.
Prediction
Real Madrid’s quality and experience make them clear favorites, but cup football has a long history of surprises. Expect Madrid to advance, though Albacete could keep it competitive—especially in the first half.
Projected score: Albacete 0–2 Real Madrid