Real Madrid advanced to the Copa del Rey last 16 with a 3-1 victory against Arandina on Saturday, while Atletico Madrid moved forward with a 3-1 win over third-tier Lugo, thanks to second-half goals from Memphis Depay and Angel Correa.
Arandina, a fourth-division team, faced the defending champions without fear. Despite Real Madrid's failure to capitalize on first-half chances and difficulties breaking through goalkeeper Adrian Alvarez, Joselu scored from the penalty spot in the 54th minute, followed by Brahim Diaz extending the lead a minute later.
Despite injury struggles, Real Madrid showcased solid performances, including the debut of Arda Guller, who played for the first time since recovering from multiple injuries.
A stoppage-time goal from Rodrygo secured Real's win, and Arandina managed to pull one back through a Nacho own goal. Atletico Madrid also had a successful match, taking an early lead against Lugo through Angel Correa. Although Lugo equalized in the 39th minute, Atletico regained control with two goals from Memphis Depay in the 66th and 74th minutes.
In another surprising result, LaLiga's lower-ranked Alaves defeated Real Betis 1-0, courtesy of Carlos Benavidez's 57th-minute goal, eliminating the 2022 cup champions. Girona advanced with a 2-0 victory over Elche, featuring goals from Daley Blind and Yan Couto.
Getafe secured a hard-fought 1-0 win at second-tier Espanyol with Luis Milla's 87th-minute goal. Meanwhile, Rayo Vayecano needed extra time to beat Huesca 2-0, with goals from Oscar Valentin and Isi Palazon in the final seconds.
The Copa del Rey action continues with 10 games scheduled for Sunday, including Barcelona's match against fourth-tier Barbastro. The round of 16 matches is set to take place on January 17.
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