Into the Copa del Rey Round of 16

Real Madrid enjoyed a convincing win over Deportiva Minera at the Estadio Cartagonova to book their place in the Copa del Rey Round of 16. Ancelotti’s team came through the tie following a blistering start, hitting three goals in under half an hour and creating numerous chances to add to their tally. Valverde put the Whites ahead with a beautiful volley with just five minutes played, before Camavinga’s header doubled the lead five minutes later and Arda Güler made it three on 28′ with a sublime piece of individual play. In the second half, Modrić got his name on the scoresheet for the second successive game and Arda Güler completed his double to make it five. The game also saw first-team debuts for Lorenzo, Diego Aguado and Chema.

The world champions and LaLiga leaders flew out the blocks in impressive style in Cartagonova and immediately set about creating chances. They enjoyed an opportunity to open the scoring after just three minutes, with two consecutive one-on-ones for Arda Güler and Endrick, but goalkeeper Fran Martínez was equal to both attempts. There was to be no mistake from our team’s next opening though, as Brahim whipped in a cross and Britos headed half-clear, but Valverde was on hand to unleash a sweetly struck volley into the back of the net. Eight minutes later, things were looking good for Real Madrid when Fran García’s cross was headed home by Camavinga. Then, before the half-hour mark, a piece of individual brilliance by Arda Güler made it 0-3.

Further chances
Before the end of the first half there were more chances to come for the visiting side, but the impressive Fran Martínez was up to the task. Brahim had another one-on-one with 31 on the clock, Modrić connected with a fantastic volley five minutes later and Valverde shot across goal on 41′, but the hosts’ goalkeeper kept Ancelotti’s team out time and again. Following the half-time break, it was the post that prevented it becoming 0-4 on 53’ following a lovely move led by Brahim. Two minutes later and Modrić did eventually beat the shot-stopper with a precise finish.

Arda Güler at the double
Real Madrid were 0-4 up now and could have taken the game even further from the home team through Brahim and Endrick on 59’ and 60’, but Fran Martínez’s inspired form showed no signs of stopping. The chances continued to flow and with just a couple of minutes left on the clock, Arda Güler latched onto a second assist by Fran García to complete his brace and close out the game. Ancelotti’s boys will now wait to find out their opposition in the Copa del Rey Round of 16.