Real Madrid News
Ex-Real Madrid starlet elated after impressing in historic upset win for Albacete: ‘Still digesting it’
Albacete enjoyed one of the greatest victories in their history last night when they eliminated Real Madrid from the Copa del Rey after defeating them 3-2.
Interestingly, former Real Madrid starlet Lorenzo Aguado, who left the club to join Albacete last summer, was one of the key figures in the victory.
The right-back started the game on the night at Estadio Carlos Belmonte and managed to ensure that Vinicius Jr. did not have a major influence on proceedings throughout the night.
Loren Aguado elated
Speaking to Radio MARCA earlier today, Aguado acknowledged that the match was “very special” both for him and for the city of Albacete, and highlighted the significance of the win.
“For the city it is something historic and for us something unique,” he said, explaining that the team and supporters experienced “a wonderful night, celebrating all together”.
On a personal level, the defender admitted that he was still processing everything he had experienced after knocking out the club where he grew up as a footballer.
“I’m still digesting it, but being able to compete against the best players in the world and beat them is something unique,” he stated.
The former Real Madrid academy player confessed that the equalising goal in stoppage time was a critical moment.
“Everything goes through your head, you even think more about extra time,” he said, although he highlighted the team’s ability to recover quickly and secure progression to the next round of the Copa del Rey.
The Albacete player explained that the key lay in the game plan and collective belief from the start, regardless of the opponent’s situation.
“From the first moment we knew we had a chance,” he assured, emphasising that the team focused on itself.
“Real Madrid are always Real Madrid, but we were clear that staying together, focused, and sticking to the plan was the key.”
Aguado also played down the importance of the change of coach at Real Madrid, insisting: “Real Madrid’s players are the best in the world, and we had to be very attentive to the details.”
Finally, Aguado assessed his duel with Vinicius on the night, acknowledging the challenge involved in going up against the Real Madrid superstar.
“You are never prepared for Vinicius to attack you, he is one of the best in the world. I had to defend Vini in some training sessions,” he said, suggesting that the training sessions at Real Madrid where he faced Vinicius helped him.
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.
