Real Madrid remain alive in the Copa del Rey, but their narrow 3-2 victory over Talavera in the round of 32 served as a sharp reminder that this competition rarely offers comfortable nights.
The result was enough to secure qualification, yet it also highlighted how unforgiving knockout football can be, especially when playing away from home against a motivated opponent.
With Talavera now behind them, Real Madrid’s attention has firmly shifted to the next stage of the tournament.
Notably, the draw for the round of 16 will take place on January 7, 2026.
As reported by Defensa Central, the pool of possible opponents presents a wide spectrum of challenges.
Real Madrid could be drawn against established La Liga sides such as Valencia, Real Sociedad, Elche, Osasuna, Alaves, or Atlético Madrid.
Each of those teams brings a different tactical problem, with some offering physical intensity and others focusing on possession and structure.
Alternatively, Los Blancos could face a Segunda Division team, with Deportivo La Coruna, Cultural Leonesa, Racing Santander, and Albacete all still dreaming of a giant-killing moment.
There are also clear limitations built into the draw. Real Madrid cannot face Barcelona or Atletico Madrid in the round of 16.
Athletic Club are also excluded for now due to their involvement with Real Madrid in the upcoming Spanish Super Cup, which will be held in Saudi Arabia during the second week of January 2026.
While these restrictions reduce the number of potential high-profile clashes in the short term, they do not eliminate them altogether.
Another important factor lies in the location of the next match. The Copa del Rey rule that favours the lower-ranked team’s stadium will continue to apply in the round of 16.
This means Real Madrid could once again find themselves playing in a hostile atmosphere, regardless of the opponent’s league status.