In an emphatic display of determination and skill, Albacete triumphed over San Fernando CD with a convincing 3-0 victory in the Copa del Rey on October 28, 2025. This Round of 128 match, held at an undisclosed venue, marked a significant turnaround for Albacete, who had been struggling in the Segunda División, and was a welcome relief following their recent inconsistency.
After a tightly contested first half that ended scoreless, Albacete emerged revitalized after the break. Just four minutes into the second half, Jefté Betancor broke the deadlock with a well-placed shot, putting Albacete ahead and igniting their momentum. The visitors quickly doubled their lead in the 57th minute, as Higinio Marín found the back of the net, solidifying a commanding advantage that San Fernando CD could not recover from.
Throughout the match, San Fernando CD struggled to find their rhythm, unable to mount a response to Albacete's growing confidence. The final blow came in the 82nd minute when Antonio Puertas, who has been a standout performer for Albacete, added the third goal, ensuring a comprehensive win and a place in the next round of the tournament.
This victory not only advances Albacete in the Copa del Rey but also injects crucial momentum into their season. Prior to this match, they faced mounting pressure due to a string of mixed results, including a disappointing 1-3 defeat to Córdoba just days earlier. The win against San Fernando CD serves as a timely reminder of their potential, especially after a thrilling encounter against Sporting Gijon earlier this month where they scored four goals. These results suggest a team that, while imperfect, possesses the capability to rise to the occasion when needed.
For San Fernando CD, the match represents a continued struggle as they remain entrenched in their fight for recognition within the lower tiers of Spanish football. Their inability to capitalize on home soil underscores the need for introspection and improvement as they navigate their season. The Copa del Rey provided a rare stage for them to shine, yet they will have to regroup and refocus on their league campaign.
Looking ahead, Albacete will aim to build on this newfound momentum in their league matches, seeking to climb the standings and escape the mid-table mire. Meanwhile, San Fernando CD must find ways to translate their experience in the tournament back to their league fixtures, ensuring they leverage the lessons learned from this encounter. The magic of the Copa del Rey continues to captivate, leaving both teams with much to ponder as they chart their paths forward.