Griezmann gives Atlético de Madrid the classification in the Copa del Rey
A spectacular goal by Antoine Griezmann in the 61st minute was enough for Atlético de Madrid to qualify for the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey, after defeating Deportivo. The match, although not very brilliant, showed the quality of the French striker.
Despite facing a lower-ranked opponent, Atlético had difficulties dominating the game. The match at Riazor showed the team’s problems away from home, with a lack of creativity in attack. The bet on Marcos Alonso and Johnny Cardoso in the midfield did not work as expected. In addition, the team missed the best version of Julián Álvarez.
Deportivo, driven by its fans, did not give up at any moment and showed its potential. It knew how to suffer when the opponent pressed and also showed ambition when attacking, especially with the entry of Mario Soriano.
The match began at a frenetic pace, with Deportivo seeking a goal. However, it was Griezmann who, with a subtle touch, made the difference, sending the ball into the top corner and securing the victory for Atlético.
Athletic Bilbao advances with suffering
The Athletic Club qualified for the quarter-finals after defeating Cultural Leonesa in a match in which they had to overcome Paredes’ expulsion. Nico Williams was key, provoking two penalties that were decisive for the victory in extra time.
This is the sixth time Athletic has reached the quarter-finals since the Copa del Rey format was changed. The team has shown great effectiveness in the single-match knockouts, overcoming rivals from different categories.
Since the 2019-20 season, the Bilbao team has won 24 of the 25 knockout rounds they have played in a single match. The only exception was last season, when Osasuna eliminated them in the round of 16.
Real Sociedad eliminates Osasuna on penalties
In an exciting match, Real Sociedad defeated Osasuna in the penalty shootout, after a 2-2 draw in regulation time and extra time. Osasuna, who had a two-goal lead, could not maintain the advantage and Real Sociedad managed to tie the game.
Osasuna took the lead, but Real Sociedad reacted and tied the match. Extra time did not change the score, and the classification was decided on penalties, where Real Sociedad was more effective.
Unai Marrero, Real Sociedad’s goalkeeper, stopped the last penalty taken by Osasuna’s defender, Alejandro Catena, securing his team’s advancement.
Round of 16 Results of the Copa del Rey
- Deportivo 0 – Atlético de Madrid 1
- Cultural Leonesa 3 – Athletic Club 4 (extra time)
- Real Sociedad 2 – Osasuna 2 (4-3 penalties)
The remaining round of 16 matches will be played between Wednesday, January 14th and Thursday, January 15th.
- Albacete – Real Madrid
- Real Betis – Elche
- Alavés – Rayo Vallecano
- Racing Santander – Barcelona
- Burgos – Valencia
Álvaro Arbeloa, Xabi Alonso’s replacement as Real Madrid coach, debuts this Wednesday at the helm of the white team on the Albacete field, of the Spanish Second Division, in the round of 16. In addition, Rayo Vallecano visits Alavés in Vitoria and Betis receives Elche in Seville.
