Five-star Real Madrid cruise past fourth-tier Deportiva Minera in Copa del Rey

Deportiva Minera 0-5 Real Madrid

Real Madrid never even gave the chance for a Copa del Rey hiccup against Deportiva Minera as they cruised to victory in their season debut in the competition. Carlo Ancelotti will have been happy with the chance to rest and rotate, although he only started two players who were not in the first team, as Lorenzo Aguado started at right back and 17-year-old Diego Aguado in the center of defense started. both make their debut.

Fede Valverde continued his run of only thumping goals, with a volley after just 6 minutes. Another 6 minutes and Eduardo Camavinga headed a second after excellent work from Fran Garcia. Los Blancos were firmly in cruise control by the time Arda Guler ended the match with a deflected third just before half-time.

Dani Ceballos gave Valverde a rare rest at that point, but it was midfield partner Luka Modric who looked fresh with his finish just before the hour mark. The Croatian created a beautiful interplay with Brahim Diaz before curling a shot into the corner. The Moroccan international and Endrick Felipe forced some brilliant saves from Minera's Fran Martinez but will have wondered how he didn't score before being sent off as Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe and Lucas Vazquez were given the final half-hour. Another youngster Chema Andres also made his debut.

In the closing stages, Guler provided the icing on the cake for Ancelotti, grabbing a brace from a second assist from Fran Garcia. He was sent through by Mbappé and put it on a plate for Guler, who won't score many goals with his right.

It will be difficult for Ancelotti to get much out of the game, but his side got the job done early, in stark contrast to the first-half performance he held in such contempt against Valencia. He also got through the game without injuries and with rotations, although Endrick's lack of confidence will be a concern after starting his first game since October 2.

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