Real Madrid vs. Albacete Player Ratings: Asencio, Carvajal Falter In Historic Cup Upset

Real Madrid suffered a surprising 3-2 defeat to second-division side Albacete in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, marking a disappointing start to Álvaro Arbeloa's tenure as coach. Despite dominating possession, Madrid created few clear chances, while Albacete proved clinical in attack.

Madrid, fielding a mix of academy players and first-team regulars, struggled early with Federico Valverde and Vinícius Júnior missing opportunities. Albacete took a deserved lead just before halftime when Javi Villar headed in from a cor-ner, but Franco Mastantuono equalized for Madrid from close range off a set-piece shortly after.

In the second half, Madrid increased pressure with Vinícius and Arda Güler threatening, but poor defending allowed Albacete to regain the lead. A failed clearance by Raúl Asencio led to Jefte Betancor scoring with less than ten minutes remaining. Madrid equalized in the 91st minute through Gonzalo García's header, only for Betancor to curl in a dramatic winner with almost the final kick, sealing a historic cup upset.

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