Real Madrid climbed to the top of the Copa del Rey standings after a tight victory at Pazo dos Deportes in Lugo, beating Breogan 80-73. The Galicians pushed hard, and the outcome remained in doubt until the final minutes. The win marked Real Madrid’s 19th success in 22 games, underscoring a streak that shines in the Endesa League where the Whites have claimed 17 wins in the last 18 matches.
Madrid begins to show the calendar’s demands as the season intensifies. The team remains the heavy favorite for all titles at stake, yet the schedule without breaks has started to show its price. After a demanding stretch, the squad has reached 50 matches in the campaign, and the brilliance of the early season has given way to a more pragmatic rhythm driven by endurance and tactical discipline.
In January, disruption hit the squad with injuries and absences. One of the most persistent issues involved Edy Tavares, who battled a right ankle injury, and Sergio Llull, who carried plantar fasciitis in his right foot. Their absence was felt, and both players were pushed to return in time for the Copa del Rey as the tournament loomed.
The return brought a mixed moment for Real Madrid. A defeat against Olimpia Milano (81-76) arrived as the team was trying to accelerate toward the Copa del Rey window. The timing could not have been worse, and the Whites faced the challenge of regrouping with a lineup that had only recently regained full strength. Still, the squad regrouped on the final Euroleague matchday, returning to Madrid with lessons learned and renewed focus for the cup run.
There is a notable elegance in how the team plays when at its best. The balance of ball movement, defensive intensity, and individual talent creates moments of high quality that fans remember long after the final whistle. The trio featuring Facundo Campazzo and Llull, alongside a refined supporting cast, has become a focal point for fans and analysts alike.
Against Breogán, Real Madrid produced a decisive performance from its leaders. The captain delivered five triples on ten attempts, finishing with 17 points and a strong presence on the court. The Balearic touch was evident in the shooting cadence and the decision-making under pressure. On the boards, Tavares again provided a vital contribution, posting 13 points, a steady presence at the free-throw line, and six rebounds, four of them on the defensive end. These performances helped cement Madrid’s advantage and underscored the team’s ability to balance individual effort with collective execution.
The Cup remains a tangible target, with the team emphasizing its intent to compete with determination. Llull reflected on the journey, noting that both he and his teammate were focused on returning to the cup lineup and contributing meaningfully to the cause. After the win, the squad prepared to return to Madrid, recharge, and fine-tune the details before heading to Torremolinos for what promises to be a demanding cup run. The club aims to capture a title that has eluded them since 2020, underscoring the ongoing pursuit of silverware in a highly competitive season.
The broader narrative of Real Madrid this season centers on resilience, tactical depth, and the capacity to adjust as the calendar tightens. Injuries were met with careful management and a philosophy of depth, allowing the team to navigate a condensed schedule without losing sight of its championship ambitions. The blend of veteran leadership and emerging form from other contributors continues to support a squad that aspires to maintain momentum across domestic and European competitions.
In post-match remarks, the emphasis remained on staying united, focusing on recovery, and sharpening the details for the next challenge. Real Madrid’s supporters can expect a team that remains vigilant, adaptable, and ready to compete at the highest level. The Copa del Rey, with its history and prestige, remains a central stage where the squad aims to demonstrate consistency, quality, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.