Real Madrid completed its task in the Copa del Rey without any frills, winning 3-2 against third-division team Talavera in the round of 32. In the end, the Royals had to sweat more than they would have liked.
The roles were clearly defined, of course, with Los Blancos going into the game as clear favorites against third-division side Talavera CF. But just how difficult such a match can be was demonstrated on Tuesday by FC Barcelona, who had to wait a long time for their two goals in a 2-0 win over Guadalajara, also a third-division side.
Real strike twice before the break
Xabi Alonso gave several regulars a break after the 2-1 win at Deportivo Alaves, with Endrick and Gonzalo given the chance to prove themselves alongside Mbappé in attack. The Royals set the tone from the start, with Mbappé having an early chance, but home keeper Gonzalez was on hand (4′). The underdogs played courageously up front here and there, especially in the opening minutes, when Moreno had Talavera’s best chance of the first half, but his header was saved by Lunin (18′). From then on, Real got serious and created several chances, but Gonzalo (22′), Dani Ceballos (24′) and Arda Güler (27′) were unable to convert. Mbappé then made up for it by confidently converting a rather generous handball penalty (41′). The favorites even increased their lead before the break when Mbappé made a great run on the left side of the box and forced an own goal from Farrando (45’+1).
Talavera shows great spirit
After the break, things were quiet at first, with Mbappé (52′), Arda Güler (68′) and Jimenez (75′) all missing chances to make it 3-0. It looked like the Royals were cruising into the round of 16 – and then came the final phase. The underdogs pulled one back through Arroyo and were back in the game (80′).
But just eight minutes later, Gonzalez, who had been strong up to that point, let Mbappé’s long-range shot slip through. Talavera didn’t let the 1-3 score throw them off course and pulled another goal back through Di Renzo’s tap-in after Isaiah’s free kick (90’+1). The underdogs almost forced extra time, but Lunin was on hand to save Isaiah’s header shortly before the end. Real ultimately progressed 3-2, but had to endure more of a scare than the Royals would have liked. Once again, the Madrid side were fortunate to have Mbappé in their ranks, as the Frenchman scored two goals and provided one assist.
What’s next? Talavera plays Arenas Club de Getxo in the Third Division on Sunday (12 noon). Real faces Sevilla the day before (9 p.m.).