Real Madrid News
RFEF president addresses Real Madrid controversy ahead of Copa del Rey final – ‘I appeal to common sense’
Rafael Louzan, the president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), has called for calm and confidence in light of the ongoing controversy surrounding Real Madrid’s participation in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
Addressing the situation, Louzan assured that he had already spoken with the relevant parties and emphasised the importance of moving forward with a focus on the game itself.
“I appeal to common sense and responsibility,” Louzan began saying, urging everyone involved to keep the bigger picture in mind.
He also mentioned that he had already spoken with Real Madrid, hoping that both teams would deliver a memorable match.
“I’ve already spoken with Real Madrid. I hope we see a great match tomorrow, which is what’s important. I’ve already spoken to the right people,” he noted.
Arbitration committee set up to address concerns
While Louzan did not engage in discussions regarding the refereeing decisions or the issues raised by the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA), he made it clear that his priority was ensuring the final remained a celebration of football.
“It’s a matter for the CTA. I’m not going to go into that. Today we have to enjoy ourselves,” he said, reminding everyone that the focus should be on enjoying the spectacle of the match.
To address the concerns, Louzan confirmed the creation of an arbitration working committee.
This committee includes representatives from all football stakeholders, including Real Madrid, with the aim of improving the way refereeing decisions are handled in future games.
“We have created a committee that also includes Real Madrid and all football stakeholders,” he revealed.
Despite the tension surrounding the final due to the refereeing controversy, the RFEF president reassured fans that everything was in place for a fantastic event. “There are thousands of fans and millions of people around the world watching this final. We’re going to work hard to make sure everything goes well,” he concluded.
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.
