WATCH: Albacete take shock lead before Real Madrid equalise

Real Madrid are having a difficult first match post-Xabi Alonso, with Albacete providing a tough test in their Copa del Rey tie against Alvaro Arbeloa’s side at the Estadio Carlos Belmonte.

Arbeloa opted to make sweeping changes from the Spanish Supercup defeat to Barcelona, which spelled the end of Alonso. However, this freshness has not helped Real Madrid, who have struggled to create chances against their Segunda opponents, who have managed to find the breakthrough courtesy of a fantastic header from defender Javi Villar.

Albacete are spoiling Alvaro Arbeloa’s first match in charge of Real Madrid so far! 👀

Javi Villar with the goal that sent the home fans into wild celebrations 👏 pic.twitter.com/obSVlp8UGg

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) January 14, 2026

🚨🚨| GOAL: JAVI VILLAR GIVES ALBACETE THE LEAD!!!

Albacete 1-0 Real Madridpic.twitter.com/ssZchYWsMD

— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) January 14, 2026

Albacete of the second division of Spanish football have taken the lead vs. Real Madrid 😳 pic.twitter.com/LVzTXDCQxJ

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) January 14, 2026

Fortunately for Real Madrid, they have managed to find an equaliser before half time. In the third minute of stoppage time, Franco Mastantuono has fired home the first goal of the Arbeloa era.

Albacete’s lead didn’t last long as Real Madrid respond! 🔵

Franco Mastontuono gets his 2nd for the club 🔥 pic.twitter.com/AT00O3KnMK

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) January 14, 2026

🚨🚨| GOAL: MASTANTUONO EQUALIZES FOR REAL MADRID!!!

Albacete 1-1 Real Madridpic.twitter.com/XaMePGMHwn

— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) January 14, 2026

Real Madrid have not had the desired “new manager bounce” in the opening 45 minutes of Arbeloa’s tenure, which will be a concern. However, they will be in the ascendency for the second half after that equaliser.