Rayo Vallecano completes the round of 16 in the Copa del Rey
The Rayo Vallecano secured their ticket to the next phase of the Copa del Rey MAPFRE 2025-2026, becoming the sixteenth and final team to achieve it. Their 1-3 victory over Granada CF at the Estadio Nuevo Los Cármenes sealed their qualification. The visiting team showed their best version after the break to overcome a complicated scenario. ⚽
A match that turned after halftime
The first half showed a balanced duel, where both sides measured their strengths without breaking the equality. The key to the match came in the second half. Rayo Vallecano changed their dynamic, imposed a higher pace, and found the necessary effectiveness in the rival area. This transformation allowed them to score the goals that decisively decided the tie in their favor.
Keys to the franjirrojo victory:- Change of attitude and greater intensity after the break.
- Greater precision in the attacking zone during the final stretch.
- Ability to handle pressure in a complicated rival stadium.
The franjirrojo team reacts in the second half to resolve a match that looked complicated on Granada territory.
The complete map for the round of 16
With this victory, the full list of the sixteen teams that will continue in the fight for the title is now known. Rayo Vallecano joins the rest of the clubs, including representatives from LaLiga EA Sports and LaLiga Hypermotion. Now, everything awaits the draw that will determine the matchups for the round of 16.
Next steps in the competition:- Celebrate the draw to pair the sixteen qualified clubs.
- The teams will have to prepare for the first legs of the round of 16.
- Granada CF, from LaLiga Hypermotion, is eliminated from the cup.
Conclusion of the previous phase
The Granada CF said goodbye to the competition in their own stadium, a scenario that this time could not act as a fortress to avoid elimination. For its part, Rayo Vallecano demonstrated character and effectiveness to reach their goal and enter the round of 16 draw, where any rival will be tough. The Copa del Rey now enters its most decisive and exciting phase. 🏆