Real Madrid, one of global football’s most decorated institutions, prepares for a unique challenge as they travel to face CF Talavera in the Copa del Rey Round of 32. This highly anticipated fixture, scheduled for Wednesday, December 17, 2025, pits the titans of Spanish football against a club operating several tiers below, embodying the spirit of domestic cup competitions where such David-and-Goliath encounters frequently unfold.

CF Talavera enters this monumental clash having recently secured promotion to the Tercera Division, the third tier of the Spanish football pyramid. Founded in 2011, the club is experiencing its highest-ever placement within the national league structure. Hosting Real Madrid represents an unprecedented opportunity for the provincial side, offering significant exposure and a chance to test themselves against the very best in the sport.

For Real Madrid, the match carries considerable weight beyond mere progression in the cup. Head coach Xabi Alonso faces intense scrutiny, with his position often described as precarious given the relentless pressure for silverware at the Santiago Bernabéu. An unexpected defeat against a lower-league opponent would undoubtedly exacerbate any existing concerns, making a professional and decisive performance paramount.

Despite the clear disparity in resources and pedigree, Real Madrid is expected to adopt a strategic approach to team selection. Alonso will likely balance the need to rest key first-team players with the imperative of fielding a sufficiently strong squad to avoid a potential “giant-killing” scenario. The predicted lineup suggests a blend of established talent and promising youth, aiming for control and offensive potency.

In goal, Andriy Lunin is anticipated to start, providing a reliable presence between the posts. The defensive line is projected to feature Fran Garcia and Alvaro Carreras in the full-back positions, offering width and defensive solidity. Raul Asencio and Victor Valdepenas are tipped to form the central defensive partnership, tasked with containing any rare Talavera forays forward and initiating play from the back.

The midfield engine room is expected to be anchored by Dani Ceballos and Aurelien Tchouameni. Tchouameni, a vital component of Real Madrid’s senior squad, will provide crucial defensive cover and dictate the tempo of the game. Ceballos’s creativity and passing range will be essential in unlocking Talavera’s likely compact defense, driving the team’s offensive transitions throughout the ninety minutes.

Further forward, the attacking trio is predicted to include Rodrygo on one flank, bringing his pace and goal-scoring threat. Franco Mastantuono, a highly-rated prospect, is expected to feature, offering flair and youthful exuberance. Brahim Diaz, known for his dribbling ability and vision, completes the creative midfield, supporting Gonzalo Garcia, who is slated to lead the line as the central striker.

This predicted lineup, while featuring several players who might not be regular starters in La Liga or the Champions League, still represents a formidable force. The inclusion of seasoned internationals alongside emerging talents underscores Real Madrid’s commitment to respecting the competition and ensuring a professional performance to secure passage to the next round of the Copa del Rey.

The Copa del Rey is renowned for its capacity to produce memorable upsets, where the passion and determination of underdog teams can occasionally overcome superior talent. While CF Talavera will undoubtedly play with immense spirit and the backing of their home crowd, Real Madrid’s objective remains clear: to assert their dominance early and avoid providing any opportunity for a shock result.

Ultimately, this encounter transcends a simple football match for CF Talavera; it is a momentous occasion that will be etched in the club’s history. For Real Madrid, it is a crucial step in their pursuit of domestic silverware, requiring focus, discipline, and a clinical execution of their game plan to navigate what could otherwise become a challenging and uncomfortable cup tie.

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Keywords: Real Madrid, CF Talavera, Copa del Rey, Real Madrid starting XI, Xabi Alonso, Tercera Division, Spanish football, Cup upset potential