News Archive

Copa del Rey, quarter finals, first leg

It seems Real Madrid’s best hope of a title this season is in the Spanish cup, and they took a big step towards the semi-finals with a 0-1 victory at city rivals Leganés on Thursday. Kovacic missed the best chance in the first half, and Marcos Llorente headed a free kick against his own crossbar after the interval, but the game appeared to be heading for a draw until Marco Asensio turned in Theo’s cross with two minutes to go. (18.01.18)

Cup games come quick and fast at this time of the year in Spain, and on Wednesday there were three quarter final first leg ties. Defending champions Barcelona are in trouble after they were beaten 1-0 by city rivals Espanyol, Diego López saving a Messi penalty before Oscar Melendez got the winner with two minutes to go. It was Barça’s first defeat of the season under new coach Ernesto Valverde. Atlético Madrid are also in danger of being knocked out after they lost 1-2 at home to Sevilla, Diego Costa opening the scoring for Simeone’s side midway through the second half, but a Moyà own goal and a late strike by Joaquín Correa turning the scoreline around. Valencia meanwhile found themselves behind against last season’s runners-up Alavés, but Rubén Sobrino’s second half strike was finally overturned by goals from Guedes and Rodrigo. All three ties are still wide open however, and next week’s return legs are not to be missed. (17.01.18)