The first matches of the Round of 32 in the Copa del Rey 2024/25 have been played. This stage of the competition features 32 teams, with 28 advancing from the previous round and four teams (Mallorca, Athletic Club, Barcelona, and Real Madrid) qualifying directly due to their participation in the 2025 Spanish Supercup.
The matches took place between January 3-7, with single-leg elimination games held at the home of the lower-ranked team. This competition is particularly special for lower-division clubs, as it gives them a chance to face professional teams.
Key results from January 3-5 include:
- Barbastro 0-4 Barcelona
- Pontevedra 3-0 Mallorca
- Logroñés 0(3)-(4)0 Athletic Club
- Marbella 0-1 Atlético Madrid
- Ourense 3-2 Valladolid
- Almería 4-1 Sevilla
- Elche 4-0 Las Palmas
Several surprises emerged from these matches. Pontevedra (Segunda Federación) continued their impressive cup run by defeating Mallorca 3-0, having already eliminated Levante and Villarreal. Ourense (Primera Federación) staged a comeback to beat Valladolid 3-2. Elche (Segunda División) surprised Las Palmas with a 4-0 victory. Defending champions Athletic Club narrowly advanced on penalties against Logroñés.
Remaining fixtures for January 6-7:
- Eldense vs Valencia
- Deportiva Minera vs Real Madrid
Most top-flight teams progressed to the next round, but the upsets demonstrate the unpredictable nature of cup competitions.
Aditya Kapur