European Football

Copa del Rey: Battle for Semi-Final Glory Heats Up

Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey Quarter-Final Challenge

Real Madrid heads to Butarque stadium tonight for a crucial single-leg Copa del Rey quarter-final match against Leganés, scheduled for 9 PM CET. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad aims to secure their spot in the semi-finals, where matches will shift to a two-legged format.

The stakes are particularly high as Real Madrid stands just three victories away from reaching their fourth final of the season. This away fixture represents a critical step in their Copa del Rey campaign, occurring during an intensely packed schedule that includes:

• The Madrid derby in LaLiga this Saturday
• Champions League playoff against Manchester City
• Multiple domestic fixtures

Team Updates and Key Players

Carlo Ancelotti expressed his enthusiasm during the pre-match press conference, stating, “The cup has given us joy in the past and we’re eager to go far.” The team faces some challenges with:

• Injuries to Rüdiger and Alaba
• Strong performances from Valverde in Copa matches
• Emerging talents Arda Güler and Endrick showing promise

Notable attacking statistics:
– Valverde, Güler, and Endrick have contributed 6 of the team’s 10 Copa goals
– The trio has shown exceptional chemistry in cup competitions

Leganés enters this match with impressive credentials:
• Undefeated in 5 of their last 6 matches
• First home Copa del Rey fixture this season
• Notable victories against:
– Ciudad de Lucena (1-2)
– Estepona (via penalties)
– Cartagena (1-2)
– Almería (2-3)

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