Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Real Madrid Kicks Off Copa del Rey vs Talavera

12/17/2025

31 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Real Madrid Club de Fútbol begins its Copa del Rey campaign against CF Talavera on December 17, 2025.
Real Madrid defeated Deportivo Alaves 2-1 and aims to build momentum.
Coach Xabi Alonso will rotate players due to injuries, with Victor Valdepeñas and Thiago Pitarch expected to feature.
Alonso said Endrick could start and addressed the Negreira case, stressing transparency in football.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1903, the Copa del Rey is Spain's oldest football competition, initially serving as the national championship until La Liga's formation in 1929. Real Madrid, a founding member, has won the tournament 20 times, while Barcelona leads with 32 titles. Recent controversies, including player injuries and the Negreira case, underscore the ongoing challenges in Spanish football governance and the tournament's cultural significance.

1 of 2

Story summary

Real Madrid Club de Fútbol begins its Copa del Rey campaign against CF Talavera on December 17, 2025.
Real Madrid defeated Deportivo Alaves 2-1 and aims to build momentum.
Coach Xabi Alonso will rotate players due to injuries, with Victor Valdepeñas and Thiago Pitarch expected to feature.
Alonso said Endrick could start and addressed the Negreira case, stressing transparency in football.

1 / 2