Real Madrid suffered a stunning Copa del Rey setback on wednesday night as they were knocked out by LaLiga2 side Albacete, losing 3-2 in the Round of 16 in what was one of the biggest upsets of the competition this season, Softfootball reports.
The defeat marked a difficult start for Álvaro Arbeloa, who was taking charge of his first game as Real Madrid head coach following the club’s decision to part ways with Xabi Alonso earlier this week.
According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Arbeloa did not shy away from responsibility after the game, holding his hands up for the disappointing result. Romano posted:
It’s my fault. I’m the maximum responsible for this loss.We now think about La Liga and the Champions League, which are our great goals.
Despite fielding a strong side, Real Madrid were caught off guard by a fearless Albacete team who capitalised on defensive lapses and showed remarkable composure in front of goal. The loss ends Los Blancos’ Copa del Rey campaign far earlier than expected and piles pressure on Arbeloa at the very start of his tenure.
The former Madrid defender, however, was quick to shift focus, making it clear that the club’s priorities now lie in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, where Real Madrid remain firmly in contention.
With this early setback behind him, Arbeloa will be looking for an immediate response from his players as he begins his journey on the Real Madrid touchline under intense scrutiny.
