Copa del Rey: Real Madrid facing the glimmers of the past

This evening, Real Madrid travels to Cartagena to face the Mining Sportsteam of the Second RFEFwith the firm intention of passing this obstacle without a hitch. However, as AS pointed out, history has shown that King’s Cup can hold big surprises, even for the biggest clubs.

Real Madrid, although often at the height of its glory, has not always been able to avoid the traps set by teams from lower divisions, notably those of the old Second BToday Primera RFEF.

One of the club’s worst Cup failures dates back to 2000-01, when they traveled to the Toledoin Second B. Real Madrid, reigning European champion, was surprised in the first 15 minutes with a 2-0 which left the team without reaction.

Players like Solari, Hierro and Morientes were unable to reverse the trend, and a humiliating defeat tarnished the club’s season. This match, marked by the absence of several team executives, put an end to the quest for the Cup for Vicente Del Bosque, who would never manage to lift this trophy during his mandate.

The following year, another episode will remain etched in the memories of supporters. Facing theAlcorcona team of Second BReal Madrid finds itself caught in a whirlwind of surprises.

Despite a competitive team with Raúl, Benzema and Guti, the Merengues suffered a 4-0 humiliation, which sealed the first defeat in the first leg. Even the return to the Bernabéu, where the team only managed to win 1-0, would not be enough to reverse the situation. This defeat, largely responsible for the fall of Manuel Pellegrini, reminds us that the Cup does not forgive any weakness.

In 2015-16, it was an administrative error that eliminated Real Madrid from the competition. Cheryshevaligned against Cadizwas not allowed to play due to a suspension inherited from his loan to Villarreal.

The forgetting of this sanction, as well as the lack of vigilance of management, allowed Cadiz to recover a victory on the green carpet, thus eliminating Real Madrid. An administrative failure which will have repercussions on the team and its management.

Denis Cheryshev, replaced by Kovacic against Cadiz, did not have the right to play in this meeting (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

The last big setback in the Cup is still fresh in our memories. In 2021, under the leadership of Zinedine ZidaneReal Madrid is eliminated by Alcoyanoa team of Second Bafter a 2-1 defeat.

Despite necessary rotations and the entry of executives like Kroos or Benzema in the second half, the team was unable to cope with the determination of an opponent who ended up triumphing in overtime. This elimination marks a turning point for Zidane, who sees criticism multiply after this bitter failure.

We can hope that Ancelotti has learned lessons from past setbacks. Although Real Madrid are undeniably favorites against Deportiva Minera, the Italian technician is perfectly aware that the Copa del Rey sometimes reserves unexpected surprises.

As a seasoned coach, he will ensure that he prepares his team with the necessary rigor to avoid repeating the missteps that have tarnished the club’s recent history.