Brahim Diaz blew open a stale contest in a mesmerising second-half spell, making the difference for Real Madrid in just five minutes to ease Los Blancos past Arandina in the Copa del Rey. The Spaniard had been admittedly quiet for the first 50 minutes, but he won a penalty — converted by Joselu — before bagging a wonderful goal of his own to help Madrid to a comfortable 3-1 win.
Debutant Arda Guler was Madrid's most apparent attacking threat early on. The 18-year-old Turk forced a neat save out of Adrian Alvarez, before cannoning a free-kick off the post. Joselu also came close, firing into the side netting from a tight angle.
But Los Blancos came alive after the break. Joselu grabbed the opener, tucking a penalty into the bottom corner. Diaz grabbed the second, a lashed effort into the corner from the edge of the box. A third from Rodrygo — assisted by Diaz — put the game beyond doubt late on.
Arandina weren't merely spectators here. The home side, in a stadium that held just 10,000 fans, tried to hit on the break, but never carved out a clear opportunity. Their sole goal — an ugly thing as Nacho turned the ball into his own net — was certainly deserved.
In the end, Madrid had to earn this win, but were good value for the victory — and deserved their spot in the last 16 as they look to defend the Spanish Cup.
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