Where to watch Talavera CF vs Real Madrid live today starts right here. Real Madrid begins their Copa del Rey campaign against third-tier Talavera this evening at El Prado stadium. The match kicks off at 3:00 PM EST on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Kickoff time is 3:00 PM EST / 12:00 PM PST (9:00 PM CET in Spain)
- Copa del Rey Round of 32 single-game knockout format decides advancement
- Real Madrid making their Copa del Rey debut this season against Segunda División opposition
- Available on ESPN Select and ESPN+ in the United States; fuboTV also streams the match
Streaming Channels and TV Coverage for US Viewers
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American soccer fans have multiple options to catch this Copa del Rey clash. ESPN Select holds the primary rights to all Copa del Rey matches in the United States. If you have a cable subscription, tune into ESPN Select on your TV provider.
For cord-cutters and streaming viewers, ESPN+ offers live coverage with a subscription to the service. Additionally, fuboTV streams the entire match. The ESPN App also broadcasts the game, though you’ll need an active ESPN+ subscription to access it through that platform.
Exact Match Details and Venue Information
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Real Madrid travels to Estadio El Prado in Talavera de la Reina, Spain for this Wednesday evening encounter. The match is part of the Copa del Rey Round of 32, where Real Madrid enters the tournament as defending champions seek to reclaim glory.
| Category | Details |
| Kickoff Time (EST) | 3:00 PM |
| Kickoff Time (PST) | 12:00 PM |
| Stadium | Estadio El Prado (Talavera de la Reina, Spain) |
| Competition Format | Copa del Rey Round of 32 (Single Match) |
Talavera Team Status: The Underdog Challenge
Real Madrid faces CF Talavera, a team competing in the Segunda División B (third tier) of Spanish football. Talavera currently sits near the bottom of Group 1 in the Primera Federación with just 15 points from 4 wins, 3 draws, and 9 losses.
This massive quality gap makes Real Madrid overwhelming favorites in the contest. However, cup tournaments have a history of surprising results. Talavera earned their place in the Round of 32 by defeating Rayo Majadahonda 4-1 earlier in the Copa del Rey this season, showing they possess some attacking capability.
Real Madrid Lineup and Rotation Plans
Xabi Alonso is expected to make some rotations for this cup clash, a chance to rest key stars before the winter break. Nevertheless, Mbappé features in the starting lineup despite missing last week’s Manchester City match. Mastantuono returns to the starting XI after registration complications forced earlier adjustments.
Youth academy players like Jimenez will start at right-back, with Carreras, Huijsen, and other rotation options getting minutes. Lunin starts in goal over the regular first-choice keeper, giving him important action. This lineup balances maintaining competitive advantage with tactical rotation before Christmas fixtures.
Why Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey Tournament Matters This Season?
Real Madrid hasn’t won the Copa del Rey since 2023, making this tournament a significant objective. The club seeks to add silverware alongside La Liga and Champions League ambitions. Starting against inferior opposition provides an ideal first-round matchup to build momentum and confidence.
“The goal is qualification for the next round.”
— Real Madrid Official Statement, December 17, 2025
Sources
- Managing Madrid – Real Madrid official community and match coverage
- ESPN – Streaming availability and broadcasting information
- Real Madrid Official Website – Team information and tournament details
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