In a commanding display of strength and depth, Real Madrid triumphed 5-0 over fourth-tier Deportivo Minera in the Copa del Rey on January 6, 2025. The match, played at the Santiago Bernabéu, showcased Real Madrid’s impressive squad depth, with standout performances from experienced midfielders Luka Modric and Arda Guler. The win sees Los Blancos advance to the last 16 of the prestigious tournament, as they continue their bid for domestic glory.
Match Overview: A Strong Start to Finish
From the opening whistle, Real Madrid stamped their authority on the game, displaying clinical finishing and a tactical masterclass that left Deportivo Minera with little opportunity to challenge. The 5-0 scoreline was a reflection of both the team’s quality and their ability to control proceedings.
Goals:
- 5th Minute – Federico Valverde opened the scoring early, converting a volley with precision from a well-placed cross. His strike set the tone for a dominant first half.
- 13th Minute – Eduardo Camavinga doubled the lead, meeting a corner kick with a powerful header that left Deportivo Minera’s goalkeeper with no chance.
- 28th Minute – Arda Guler found the back of the net with a clinical finish after some excellent build-up play in midfield. His first goal of the night demonstrated his growing influence on the match.
- 55th Minute – Luka Modric added a fourth with a beautifully curled shot from the edge of the box. At 39 years old, Modric showed that his experience is invaluable, scoring a goal that perfectly encapsulated his technical ability.
- 88th Minute – Arda Guler sealed his brace with a composed finish late in the match, capping off a near-perfect individual performance.
Player Ratings:
Arda Guler (9/10): The standout performer of the night. Guler was a dynamic force in midfield, contributing two goals and displaying excellent vision and playmaking abilities. His movement and positioning were exceptional, allowing him to be in the right place at the right time to finish off the chances that came his way.
Luka Modric (8.5/10): The Croatian maestro continues to defy age. Modric’s performance in this game was a testament to his enduring quality. His curling shot in the 55th minute was a thing of beauty, and his influence on the game was felt throughout. At 39, his ability to control the tempo and dictate play remains unmatched.
Federico Valverde (8/10): Valverde’s energetic play was key to Real Madrid’s early dominance. He opened the scoring with a well-taken volley and worked tirelessly in midfield, linking up play and driving the team forward. His box-to-box movement added a layer of dynamism to the team’s play.
Eduardo Camavinga (8/10): Camavinga was solid both defensively and offensively, providing a steady presence in the midfield. His header in the 13th minute was crucial in putting the match beyond Deportivo Minera early, and he continued to disrupt any attempts by the opposition to build an attack.
Tactical Analysis: Total Control in Midfield
Real Madrid’s success in this match was built on their dominance in midfield. Under Carlo Ancelotti, the team employed a controlled approach, patiently working the ball through the middle and exploiting spaces with quick, incisive passes. The midfield trio of Modric, Camavinga, and Valverde was key to dictating the tempo of the game. They ensured that Real Madrid maintained possession and created numerous attacking opportunities.
With Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior starting on the bench, Ancelotti opted for a more balanced approach, relying on the midfield’s ability to control the game. The introduction of Mbappe and Vinicius in the second half added an extra dimension to Real Madrid’s attack, although by that point, the match was already well out of reach for Deportivo Minera.
Real Madrid’s approach was methodical yet effective, and their clinical finishing ensured that they didn’t let the opportunity slip. Even with several key players resting, the team showed their strength in depth and their readiness for any competition.
Conclusion: A Comfortable Victory and a Statement of Intent
This 5-0 win serves as both a confidence booster and a statement of intent for Real Madrid as they advance to the last 16 of the Copa del Rey. The performance was a reminder of the team’s vast talent pool, and while Deportivo Minera may not have been the toughest of opposition, Real Madrid’s execution was flawless.
The standout performances from Arda Guler and Luka Modric highlighted the team’s ability to mix youthful flair with experienced craftsmanship. Guler’s two goals showcased his growing influence, while Modric’s goal and overall play demonstrated why he remains one of the best midfielders in the world, even at the age of 39.
Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga also played key roles in controlling the game, with their energy and technical ability in the middle of the park providing the perfect platform for the team’s attacking play.
For Ancelotti and his side, this victory is an important step as they continue their journey in the Copa del Rey and beyond. The team’s performance, even while resting key players, proves that Real Madrid remains a force to be reckoned with in all competitions.
