Despite resting most of its top players, Real Madrid easily defeated fourth-tier Deportivo Minera 5-0 to secure a spot in the last 16 of the Copa del Rey. Manager Carlo Ancelotti made the decision to rest star players such as Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe, giving a debut to 17-year-old central defender Diego Aguado, who played alongside his brother Lorenzo. The strong performance demonstrates the depth of talent within the Real Madrid squad.
Real Madrid Cruises Past Deportivo Minera in Copa del Rey, Showcasing Squad Depth
Spanish football giants Real Madrid comfortably defeated fourth-tier minnows Deportivo Minera 5-0 on Thursday to advance to the last 16 of the Copa del Rey. Manager Carlo Ancelotti took the opportunity to rest several key players, including Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe, and Karim Benzema, while handing a debut to 17-year-old central defender Diego Aguado.
The match was a one-sided affair, with Real Madrid dominating possession and creating numerous scoring chances. Marco Asensio opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a fine left-footed strike, before Rodrygo doubled the lead just three minutes later. The third goal came from Eduardo Camavinga in the 22nd minute, who capitalized on a turnover from the Deportivo Minera defense. Mariano Diaz and Jesus Vallejo added two more goals after the break to complete the rout.
Aguado, who played alongside his brother Lorenzo in central defense, impressed on his debut. He showed composure on the ball and made several important interceptions. The strong performance of the young defender highlighted the depth of talent within the Real Madrid squad, with Ancelotti having a wealth of options at his disposal for the remainder of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Ancelotti rest so many key players? Ancelotti wanted to give his star players a rest ahead of a busy schedule in La Liga and the Champions League. It also gave him an opportunity to assess the depth of his squad.
2. Who were the standout performers for Real Madrid? Asensio, Rodrygo, and Camavinga were all impressive in attack, while Aguado and Vallejo played well in defense.
3. How far can Real Madrid go in this year's Copa del Rey? Real Madrid have a strong squad and have won the Copa del Rey four times in the last seven years. They will be confident of reaching the later stages of the competition again this season.
4. What is the history of Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey? Real Madrid are the most successful team in the history of the Copa del Rey, having won the trophy a record 20 times. They won the competition last season, defeating Barcelona in the final.
5. What are Real Madrid's main objectives this season? Real Madrid's main objectives this season are to win La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey. They are currently top of La Liga and have progressed to the last 16 of the Champions League.
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