Real Madrid News
Real Madrid will not face Barcelona, Atletico in Copa del Rey until quarter-finals as RFEF approves rule change
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has confirmed major changes to the format of the 2025/2026 Copa del Rey.
The four clubs that will participate in the Spanish Super Cup – FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Athletic Club – will now be placed in a separate draw pot not only for the Round of 32, but also for the Round of 16.
As a result, Los Blancos will avoid facing Barcelona, Atletico Madrid or Athletic Club until the quarter-final stages at least.
Previously, the four teams participating in the Super Cup would be separated only for the Round of 32, but the RFEF has now carried it forward for the Round of 16 as well.
As a result of these changes, high-profile matchups such as a Copa Clasico or a Madrid derby will not occur until at least the quarter-final stage.
This system also guarantees that lower-division clubs who progress will have the chance to host one of the top teams at their own stadiums.
Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, and Athletic Club will all be involved in the Spanish Super Cup, scheduled for January 2026 in Saudi Arabia.
Los Blancos were handed a hammering by Barcelona in the Super Cup final earlier this year. They were also beaten in the Copa del Rey final by Hansi Flick’s side (after extra time) in April.
Under the leadership of Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid will hope for a better outcome should they end up getting paired against their bitter rivals again in the upcoming season.
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.
