Copa del Rey: Albacete vs Real Madrid Match Preview, Prediction, TV channels & Lineups
Real Madrid travels to Albacete for a high-stakes Copa del Rey Round of 16 clash. The European giants face a determined second-tier side looking to capitalize on Madrid's recent managerial transition.
Kick Off Time?
Competition (round): Copa del Rey (Round of 16)
Kick-off (GMT): 20:00, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Stadium, location: Estadio Carlos Belmonte, Albacete, Spain
Match Facts
This match marks the official debut of Álvaro Arbeloa as Real Madrid head coach following the sudden departure of Xabi Alonso earlier this week.
Real Madrid is looking to bounce back immediately after a painful 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final just three days ago.
Due to a congested schedule, Arbeloa is expected to rotate his squad. Young star Franco Mastantuono and Raúl Asencio are tipped for starts, while David Alaba continues his return to full fitness.
The "Clockwork Cheese" (El Queso Mecánico) has struggled in La Liga 2, sitting near the relegation zone, but they reached this round after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Celta Vigo.
This is the first meeting between these clubs in over 20 years. Historically, Albacete has never beaten Real Madrid in a competitive fixture.
Possible lineup:
Albacete:Lizoain; Lorenzo, Moreno, Villar, Neva, Jogo; Puertas, Capi, Melendez, Valverde; Betancor
Real Madrid: Lunin; Carvajal, Alaba, Carreras, F Garcia; Guler, Ceballos, Pitarch; Rodrygo, G Garcia, Mastantuono
Prediction of AI
Win Probability: AI models designate Real Madrid as heavy favorites with an 81% win probability. Albacete's chance of a historic upset stands at roughly 8%.
Projected Score: The most likely simulated outcome is a 0–3 victory for Real Madrid, as the AI expects a professional response from the visitors under their new management.
Betting Insight: Analysts favor "Over 2.5 goals" (63% probability), noting Madrid's scoring consistency despite their recent defensive lapses.
How to Watch Albacete vs Real Madrid in Spain, UK and US?
Spain: Televised live on Teledeporte and available for streaming on RTVE Play.
UK: Broadcast live on Premier Sports 2.
US: Available to stream exclusively on ESPN+ (English and Spanish commentary).
TV Channel and Live Stream: You can also follow Xscore808 live updates for other countries.
