Real Madrid will face Albacete at Estadio Carlos Belmonte in the Copa del Rey Round of 16 on Wednesday evening.
Albacete vs Real Madrid – Match Preview and Team News
- Date: Wednesday, 14th January.
- Kick-off: 8pm BST.
- Venue: Estadio Carlos Belmonte, Albacete.
Albacete Team News
Albacete has no new injury problems going into this match, apart from Higinio Marin, who may not play due to a thigh injury.
Coach Alberto Gonzalez is likely to stick with the same XI that nearly defeated Celta Vigo in the last round. Albacete eliminated top-tier Celta Vigo on penalties in a thrilling match on December 17, 2025, with a 2-2 draw after extra time.
Albacete will set up in a 5-4-1 formation as they did against Celta Vigo. Raul Lizoain will be in goal, with Lorenzo Aguado and Jonathan Gomez as wing-backs. Javi Villar will join Javi Moreno and Carlos Neva in defense.
Jefte Betancor is expected to lead the attack. The manager hopes he can continue his good form, as he has played a crucial role in the team’s advancement in the Copa del Rey with three goal involvements in three matches.
Real Madrid Team News
Real Madrid arrives at this game after a significant coaching change. Álvaro Arbeloa, previously the Castilla coach, is now the interim manager following Xabi Alonso’s departure on January 13 by mutual agreement. This will be Arbeloa’s first match as the first-team manager.
The team is facing several injury issues going into the match. Trent Alexander-Arnold (thigh), Eder Militao (hamstring), and Brahim Diaz (AFCON with Morocco) are out. Ferland Mendy is also doubtful due to a recent hamstring injury.
Antonio Rudiger won’t travel due to a knee issue, while Federico Valverde is a slight doubt after requesting to be substituted in the Super Cup final because of a knee problem. Vinicius Jr. had cramps and fatigue from the final but has not sustained an injury, depending on recovery. Rodrygo missed training due to discomfort from previous injuries.
Form
Albacete
The team is currently struggling in La Liga 2, just one point above the relegation zone, sitting in 17th place with 6 wins, 6 draws, and 9 losses, totaling 24 points.
Despite their league challenges, Albacete has shown strength in the Copa del Rey, winning their last match against Celta Vigo in a penalty shootout and progressing through rounds against San Fernando, Leganés, and Celta Vigo.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s recent performance has been mixed, highlighted by a loss in the Spanish Super Cup final. They lost to Barcelona 3-2 on January 12, 2026, in Saudi Arabia, despite a goal from Vinicius Jr. before an error resulted in Barcelona’s winning goal.
Before the showdown with Barcelona, Madrid secured a 2-1 win against Atlético Madrid in the semi-finals, with goals from Vinicius Jr. and Gonzalo García. They aim to quickly regain their form under new manager Arbeloa.
Predicted Lineups
Albacete: Lizoain; Lorenzo, Moreno, Villar, Neva, Gomez; Puertas, Capi, Melendez, Valverde; Betancor
Real Madrid: Lunin; Jiménez, Asencio, Alaba, García; Güler, Camavinga, Ceballos; Mastantuono, García, Vinicius Jr.
How to Watch Albacete vs Real Madrid?
In the UK, Sky Sports will air the match free-to-air on channel 5, while DAZN offers exclusive coverage via their streaming platform.
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