Real Madrid Edge Past Talavera in Tense Copa del Rey Clash

Real Madrid advanced to the Copa del Rey round of 16 with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over third-division side Talavera de la Reina on Wednesday at Estadio El Prado.

Kylian Mbappé proved decisive for the visitors, scoring twice to secure the win. The French forward converted a 41st-minute penalty after a handball decision, putting Real Madrid ahead. Just before halftime, Mbappé's run down the left forced an own goal from Talavera defender Manuel Farrando, doubling the lead.

Despite dominating much of the first half, Real Madrid faced a resilient Talavera side that refused to capitulate. Nahuel Arroyo pulled one back in the 80th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse. Mbappé restored the two-goal cushion in the 88th minute with a powerful shot from outside the box.

Talavera mounted a late surge, with Gonzalo Di Renzo scoring in stoppage time to set up a nervy finish, but goalkeeper Andriy Lunin made key saves to preserve the result.

Coach Xabi Alonso fielded a rotated squad but kept Mbappé on for the full match, highlighting his importance. The win relieves some pressure on Alonso amid recent inconsistent form and moves Mbappé closer to club records.

Real Madrid progress but were reminded of the Copa del Rey's unpredictability against lower-tier opponents.