Real Madrid effortlessly brushed aside Deportiva Minera with a 5-0 victory in Cartagena, marking their entry into the Copa del Rey’s round of 16. The match, more a spectacle than a contest, saw Los Blancos flex their depth as Arda Güler, Federico Valverde, and Luka Modric stole the show. While the local fans came for selfies and star-studded cameos, they left witnessing a clinical performance that left Minera in the dust.
Early Dominance: Madrid Takes Control
The match at the Cartagonova Stadium started with Deportiva Minera riding the high of hosting the footballing giants. That joy lasted precisely five minutes, as Federico Valverde unleashed a thunderous volley to put Real Madrid ahead. The Uruguayan, ever the Ironman under Ancelotti, continued his streak of reliability and flair, shattering Minera’s hopes of a Cinderella story.
While Arda Güler and Endrick missed early chances, Minera’s goalkeeper Fran García worked overtime to keep the scoreline respectable, pulling off spectacular saves that served more as personal highlights than team saviors.
A One-Sided Affair: Goals Galore
With the first goal setting the tone, Real Madrid showed no mercy. Eduardo Camavinga found himself in unfamiliar territory, nodding in a header for Madrid’s second, a moment so rare it might earn him a scrapbook entry. Meanwhile, Arda Güler, playing with the finesse of a seasoned maestro, delivered a stunning third goal just before halftime, cementing his place as a future Galáctico.
Minera’s sole glimmer of hope came when Omar tried an audacious lob from 50 yards, catching goalkeeper Andriy Lunin off-guard. Unfortunately, it sailed wide, leaving Minera’s fans with only “what could have been” moments.
Star Cameos: A Treat for the Fans
The second half was less a contest and more of a show for the fans. Enter stage left: Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr., the two kings who brought magic to an already royal performance. They joined the party late, but the energy in the stadium surged as the crowd erupted into chants and cheers.
Before the final whistle, Luka Modric, playing as if in a friendly kickabout, curled in Madrid’s fourth goal with his signature precision. Then, Arda Güler added the fifth, completing a double and officially stamping “man of the match” status.
Takeaways from the Match
- Real Madrid’s Depth Shines: Even without their first-choice lineup, Real Madrid looked unstoppable, showcasing their squad depth and tactical flexibility.
- Arda Güler’s Star Rises: The Turkish midfielder’s brace and creative flair make him one to watch in Madrid’s future lineup.
- Fran García’s Solo Heroics: Despite the scoreline, Minera’s goalkeeper Fran García delivered a performance that deserves applause, saving his team from a double-digit embarrassment.
- Endrick’s Struggles Continue: The Brazilian starlet failed to capitalize on a golden opportunity to shine. Patience will be key, but the clock is ticking for his breakout moment.
FAQs
Real Madrid defeated Deportiva Minera 5-0 in a commanding performance.
Goals were scored by Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Luka Modric, and Arda Güler .
Yes, Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. made late cameos, much to the delight of the fans.
With this win, Madrid advances to the round of 16 in the Copa del Rey and prepares for their upcoming fixtures, including the Saudi Super Cup.
Conclusion: A Game of Two Worlds
Real Madrid’s 5-0 demolition of Deportiva Minera was less a competition and more a showcase of footballing class. While Minera’s players and fans relished the opportunity to share the pitch with legends, the gulf in quality was as evident as it was entertaining.
For Madrid, it was a night to test their bench strength and delight their traveling fans. For Minera, it was a chapter in their history they’ll cherish, selfies and all. As the Copa del Rey rolls on, one thing remains clear: Real Madrid is not here to play—they’re here to win.
