The Copa del Rey, the Spanish cup competition, kicks off on Wednesday with six La Liga teams, including Atletico Madrid, taking the field against lower league clubs. Atletico, looking to avenge last season's semifinal loss, faces a team from the sixth tier of Spanish football. Other La Liga teams are also expected to have smooth sailing, but must follow the rule that requires seven first team players on the pitch at all times. This is an opportunity for them to gain some confidence and momentum before returning to league play.
Copa del Rey: La Liga Giants to Face Lower League Clubs in First Round
The Copa del Rey, Spain's national football cup competition, is set to kick off on Wednesday, with six La Liga teams taking the field against lower league opponents. Among the La Liga clubs in action will be Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and Valencia CF.
Background
The Copa del Rey is a knockout tournament open to all clubs in the Spanish football pyramid. The competition was first held in 1903 and has been won by Barcelona more than any other club, with a record 31 titles.
In recent years, the Copa del Rey has become increasingly competitive, with lower league clubs often springing surprises against their more illustrious opponents. In 2020, third-tier UD Ibiza shocked Barcelona in the round of 32.
First Round Fixtures
Here are the first round fixtures involving La Liga teams:
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the format of the Copa del Rey?
The Copa del Rey is a single-elimination tournament, with teams drawn against each other in random. The first round matches are played in a single leg, with the winners advancing to the next round. From the round of 32 onwards, matches are played over two legs.
2. Which teams are the favorites to win the Copa del Rey?
Barcelona and Real Madrid are the clear favorites to win the Copa del Rey, having won the competition a combined 54 times. However, lower league clubs have been known to spring surprises, so anything is possible.
3. Are there any special rules in the Copa del Rey?
Yes, there is a rule that requires teams to have at least seven first team players on the pitch at all times. This rule is designed to prevent teams from fielding weakened teams against lower league opponents.
4. What are the prize money and other incentives for winning the Copa del Rey?
The winner of the Copa del Rey will receive a trophy and a cash prize of €500,000. The winner will also qualify for the UEFA Europa League.
5. What is the history of the Copa del Rey?
The Copa del Rey is one of the oldest football competitions in the world, dating back to 1903. The competition was originally known as the Copa del Rey Alfonso XIII, and it was first won by Madrid FC (now Real Madrid).
As the IPL 2026 approaches, Chennai Super Kings are making moves to strengthen their team, with talks of a potential trade with Rajasthan Royals for star player Sanju Samson resurfacing. Delhi Capitals have reportedly pulled out of negotiations, giving CSK an opportunity to swoop in. Other interested teams include Kolkata Knight Riders and Lucknow Super Giants, who see Samson as an ideal fit for their squads. All eyes are on CSK's internal meeting this November, as they look to finalize their retentions for the upcoming season.
With all eyes on Hardik Pandya's absence on the ongoing India's tour of Australia, Shivam Dube has stepped up and proved himself as a key player in the team. Not only has he been impressive with the bat, but Dube has also showcased his skills with the ball, outperforming even Jasprit Bumrah in the death overs. With the team's trust and backing, Dube has continued to excel and make a mark for himself in the international cricket scene.
In an unfortunate turn of events, two Australian women cricketers were allegedly inappropriately touched by a motorcyclist in Indore on Thursday. They were walking to a nearby cafe from their hotel when the incident occurred. The BCCI and Madhya Pradesh Police have responded swiftly, with the BCCI vice-president calling the incident "very unfortunate" and promising necessary steps to prevent it in the future. The BCCI Secretary also expressed his disapproval and commended the police for their prompt action.
With a strong 6-2 start to the season, the Los Angeles Lakers are facing their biggest challenge yet as they take on the 5-1 San Antonio Spurs led by phenom Victor Wembanyama. Despite battling injuries, the Lakers have been carried by the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves who have formed a formidable chemistry on the court. Meanwhile, Wembanyama, who is averaging impressive stats this season, looks forward to facing off against one of the toughest players in the league, Doncic, and hopes to come out on top. With both teams showcasing their international superstars and the potential for a playoff preview, this game is sure to be a must-watch for all basketball fans.
During their meeting with PM Modi, the Indian women's cricket team had an interesting interaction where Harleen Deol inquired about his skincare routine. The team also recalled their meeting with the Prime Minister in 2017 after losing the World Cup and how their happiness has doubled with their recent win. Meanwhile, in other sports news, there are concerns about Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins' availability for the remaining Ashes Tests due to an injury.
Following a disappointing 3-3 draw against Club Brugge in the Champions League, FC Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has made a decision on his future with the club. Despite going behind three times in the match, Barcelona managed to salvage a point thanks to goals from Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, and an own goal from Christos Tzolis. However, the manner of their performance and the goals conceded is likely to increase the pressure on Flick, who has already faced criticism for their lackluster showings in recent weeks.
As Barcelona prepare to take on Club Brugge in their UEFA Champions League clash, all eyes are on 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal who has just returned from an injury. The young player made a statement with his fashion choice, donning a sparkling diamond chain during the team's trip to Belgium. As Barcelona aims to build off their weekend win and close the gap in their group, fans are eager to see if Yamal's on-field debut is as impressive as this stylish off-field one.
As Virat Kohli turns 37 today, we look back at his incredible journey and relive seven unforgettable moments that solidify his position as the undisputed GOAT of modern cricket. From surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI century record to becoming the fastest batsman in history to reach every 1,000-run mark from 8,000 to 12,000 in ODIs, Kohli's relentless pursuit of excellence and statistical milestones have left even legends in awe.
In a thrilling Champions League match, Barcelona managed to snatch a draw against Club Brugge, thanks to a remarkable performance from Lamine Yamal. The game was full of action, with both teams scoring fantastic goals and hitting the woodwork multiple times. Despite being behind three times, Barcelona never gave up and Yamal's goal sealed the deal. This game will surely be remembered as a classic in the history of the Champions League.
Club Brugge faced off against Barcelona in an exhilarating Champions League match at the Jan Breydelstadion. Despite Club Brugge taking the lead twice, Barcelona equalized each time, including a special solo effort from Lamine Yamal. The game ended 2-2 with both teams putting on a show for the fans.