Real Madrid Stunned by Third-Tier Unionistas in Copa del Rey Exit
Key Takeaways
- Real Madrid eliminated from Copa del Rey round of 32 by third-division Unionistas de Salamanca (2-1).
- Defeat marks a disappointing first-team debut for Castilla coach Alvaro Arbeloa.
- Unionistas advance to face Athletic Bilbao; Madrid shift focus to La Liga and Champions League.
Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey campaign ended in a stunning upset on Wednesday as they fell 2-1 to third-tier Unionistas de Salamanca. The loss, in the round of 32, spoiled the first-team managerial debut of Castilla coach Alvaro Arbeloa, who took charge with Carlo Ancelotti resting regular starters.
Match Highlights: A Historic Night for Unionistas
Unionistas, from the Primera Federacion, took a shock lead in the 39th minute through Alvaro Gomez. Real Madrid found an equalizer just before halftime via Joselu, offering hope of a turnaround.
The decisive blow came in the 78th minute from Juan Serrano. Despite late Madrid pressure—including a stoppage-time goal ruled out for offside—the lower-league side held firm for a historic win.
Real Madrid’s Rotated Lineup
Madrid fielded a heavily changed XI, blending Castilla players with fringe first-team members:
- Goalkeeper: Kepa Arrizabalaga
- Defenders: Alvaro Carrillo, Jacobo Ramon, Vinicius Tobias
- Midfielder: Mario Martin
- Forwards: Gonzalo Garcia, Alvaro Rodriguez, and goalscorer Joselu.
A Recurring Copa Nightmare
The result extends Madrid’s recent trend of Copa del Rey exits against lower-division sides, following eliminations by Alcoyano (2021) and Real Sociedad (2020). For Unionistas, founded just in 2013, this victory is the greatest in their short history.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Real Madrid now refocus on , where they lead the table, and the upcoming Champions League knockout stages. Unionistas advance to the Copa del Rey round of 16, where they will meet Athletic Bilbao—the team that knocked out Barcelona.
