Real Madrid News
Andriy Lunin shares his thoughts after Copa del Rey win – ‘They are always difficult games’
Real Madrid pulled through to the next round of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday night after a tough fight against Talavera that ended 3-2 in their favour.
An own goal and a Kylian Mbappe brace handed Real Madrid their three goals on the night, while both of the hosts’ goals came after the 80-minute mark.
In many ways, the final scoreline is deceptive and portrays the game to be closer than it was.
Andriy Lunin captained Real Madrid in the absence of the likes of Federico Valverde, Dani Carvajal and Thibaut Courtois and put up a solid show in goal with three saves.
Lunin’s analysis
The Ukrainian spoke to the media after the game, and he opened up on how Copa del Rey fixtures have historically been difficult ones.
“It was important to qualify because the Copa is different and they’re always difficult games.”
He then spoke on how he was annoyed at not keeping a clean sheet while also looking at the silver lining.
“I would like to have kept a clean sheet, but we’re into the Round of 16 and we have to keep fighting for the Cup.”
The Ukrainian international was handed the captain’s armband on the night, and he let his emotions out over how much the moment meant to him.
“Given that half the squad was out, I was named captain, but being Real Madrid captain is always a source of pride.”
“There is a lot of hard work and time put in behind the scenes. I’m grateful to my teammates and the whole club, who have helped me to get here,” he added.
Source: Real Madrid website
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
