Real Madrid progressed to the next stage of Spain’s premier cup competition, Copa Del Rey, after a comfortable 1-3 victory against 4th-tier side, Arandina CF.
Brahim Diaz showed his class being the wrecker-in-chief by having a part in all three goals scored. Other than scoring the second goal, he earned a penalty for the first one for Joselu to convert and then assisted Rodrygo in stoppage time.
The Merengues easily handled their opponents as they dominated possession and did not let Arandina threaten much, until Nacho ended up putting the ball in his own net in stoppage time.
Arda Güler made his debut and was excellent in the 1-hour stint he was involved in. The Turk found one of his efforts saved by the keeper and the other time hit the crossbar from a free kick.
After the match, Carlo Ancelotti praised Güler but also mentioned that he needs to be handled with caution:
“He isn’t at his best level physically, but he showed his quality. It was important for him to start playing with the team. We have to be patient with him. He showed his quality in the first half. The important thing is that he’s back, although he has to improve his physique and intensity.”
The game was initially difficult but the Los Blancos came back well in the second half, as mentioned by Joselu:
“These games are hard for any team. We needed 100% concentration. In the second half, we kept having the ball and they couldn’t keep up with our rhythm and we got the goals.”
Moreover, Eduardo Camavinga who returned from injury – similar to Güler – came off at the hour mark as Ancelotti did not want to take any risks. However, the Frenchman showed glimpses of his brilliance.
Arandina proved to be too easy as the European giants are headed to the next stage of the competition. The Merengues will find out their opponent from a draw which will take place on 8th January.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos will now travel to Saudi Arabia in hopes of winning the Spanish Super Cup and will come up against Atletico Madrid in the semis on 10th January.
