Real Madrid, the current Copa del Rey champions, secured their spot in the tournament's last 16 with a 3-1 victory over lower-tier Arandina on Saturday. Despite dominating possession in the first half, Madrid struggled to break through, entering halftime with a scoreless draw against a rival that failed to register a shot on goal.
The breakthrough came in the 54th minute when Joselu converted a penalty following a foul on Brahim Diaz inside the area. Brahim swiftly doubled Madrid's lead a minute later, seemingly securing the match. Rodrigo added a third goal in the final minutes, but Arandina managed a late consolation when Nacho scored an own goal in injury time.
The game also saw Arda Guler making his debut for Real Madrid after recovering from earlier season injuries.
In another match, Girona secured their spot in the last-16 with a 2-0 victory over Elche, with Daley Blind and Yan Couto finding the net. Despite Elche's 22 shots, they failed to capitalize on their chances.
Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid claimed a 3-1 victory against RFEF I (third tier) Lugo, with goals from Memphis Depay and Angel Correa. Deportivo Alaves secured a win against 2022 Cup winners Betis, while Getafe and Rayo Vallecano also emerged victorious in their respective matches.
(With Agency Inputs)
