Real Madrid News
Albacete manager explains what truly made the difference against Real Madrid
Albacete’s unforgettable night in the Copa del Rey continued to resonate long after the final whistle, and no one embodied that emotion more than their head coach, Alberto Gonzalez.
After guiding Albacete to a sensational 3–2 victory over Real Madrid in the round of 16, Gonzalez expressed his immense pride.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Gonzalez said that the magnitude of the achievement had not yet fully sunk in.
“We are ecstatic after eliminating Real Madrid, and now it’s time to digest all this and be aware of what we have achieved together.”
Assessing the historic game
Rather than focusing only on tactics or individual performances, Gonzalez repeatedly returned to the idea of unity.
For him, the bond between the players and the supporters played a decisive role on a night when belief mattered just as much as quality.
“The communion between the fans and the team has been fundamental, because we had said that we needed an aura on the field like the one we had to enjoy our chances.”
That atmosphere, driven by a packed and vocal stadium, helped Albacete stand during difficult phases of the match.
Yet Gonzalez was careful not to frame the result as a collapse from their opponents. Instead, he showed respect for Real Madrid’s history and resilience, even in defeat.
“Madrid is capable of anything. They have come out of more difficult situations and have won major titles despite defeats like this.”
Gonzalez also used the occasion to highlight the strength of Spanish football outside the top flight.
He pointed out that this Copa del Rey run is not an accident, but proof of the competitive level in the Segunda Division.
He concluded by saying, “In the Second Division, there are many high-level teams, as demonstrated yesterday, for example, by those who competed in the Copa del Rey, who were on the verge of qualifying for the next round.”
Source: Mundo Deportivo
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.
