### Talavera vs Real Madrid: Copa del Rey Showdown Set for December 17 - Real Madrid is set to face Talavera in the Round of 32 of the Copa del Rey on December 17, 2025. - Currently, Real Madrid is performing well in LaLiga, sitting in 2nd place with 39 points from 17 matches, while Talavera struggles in 19th place in Primera Federacion Group A with only 15 points from 16 matches. - Real Madrid recently secured a 2-0 victory against Alaves, while Talavera won their last Copa del Rey match against Malaga 2-1. - The match will be broadcasted on various platforms, including ESPN Select in the U.S. and fuboTV in Spain [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/talavera_vs_real_madrid_lineups_injuries_preview/s1_17615_43216847]. ### Breakdown of the Match Preview and Lineups 1. **Match Context** - Real Madrid is a strong contender in the Copa del Rey, aiming to avoid an upset against a lower-tier team. - Talavera, despite their league struggles, will look to capitalize on the opportunity to challenge a top team. 2. **Team News** - Real Madrid's coach, Xabi Alonso, has made several changes to the lineup, resting key players while introducing younger talent. - Notable changes include Andriy Lunin starting in goal and David Jiménez making his senior debut due to injuries in the squad [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/confirmed_starting_lineup_for_copa_del_rey_game_between_talavera_and_real_madrid_with_shock_mbappe_call/s1_17679_43217873]. 3. **Predicted Lineups** - Real Madrid is expected to field a mix of experienced players and youth, with Endrick and Rodrygo likely starting alongside Lunin in goal [https://thehardtackle.com/news/2025/12/17/predicted-real-madrid-lineup-against-talavera-cf-endrick-rodrygo-set-to-start-lunin-in-goal]. - Talavera will aim to leverage their home advantage at El Prado, which has a capacity of around 4,200 supporters [https://www.si.com/soccer/talavera-vs-real-madrid-copa-del-rey-preview-predictions-lineups-12-17-25]. ### Key Statistics and Insights - **Current Form:** - Real Madrid: 12 wins, 3 draws, 2 losses in LaLiga. - Talavera: 4 wins, 3 draws, 9 losses in Primera Federacion Group A. - **Recent Matches:** - Real Madrid: Victory against Alaves (2-0). - Talavera: Victory against Malaga (2-1) in the previous Copa del Rey round. ### Conclusion: Anticipation for the Copa del Rey Clash - **Expectations for the Match:** - Real Madrid is favored to win given their current form and league standing, but Talavera will be motivated to perform well at home. 1. **Real Madrid's Strengths:** - Strong squad depth and recent good form. 2. **Talavera's Challenge:** - Need to overcome their league struggles and capitalize on the home advantage. 3. **Viewing Options:** - The match will be accessible through various platforms, ensuring fans can follow the action live [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/talavera_vs_real_madrid_lineups_injuries_preview/s1_17615_43216847]. In summary, the Copa del Rey match between Talavera and Real Madrid promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams having their own motivations and challenges as they face off in this knockout stage.