What's Happening?
The draw for the round of 16 of the Copa del Rey 2025-26 was held at the RFEF headquarters in Las Rozas, Madrid. The draw determined the match-ups between eleven First Division teams and five Second Division teams.
Notably, the format this season requires clubs participating in the Super Cup, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atlético de Madrid, and Athletic Club, to face four of the five Second Division teams. The remaining Second Division team will face a First Division club. The matches are scheduled to be played on January 13, 14, and 15 as single matches, a format that will continue into the quarter-finals. A new feature in this round is the use of VAR by referees.
Why It's Important?
The Copa del Rey is a prestigious tournament in Spanish football, and the draw for the last 16 is significant as it sets the stage for potential upsets and exciting match-ups. The inclusion of VAR in this round is a notable development, as it aims to enhance the accuracy of refereeing decisions, potentially impacting the outcomes of closely contested matches. The format requiring Super Cup teams to face Second Division teams could lead to unexpected results, providing smaller clubs with the opportunity to advance further in the tournament. This structure also maintains competitive balance and interest in the tournament.
What's Next?
The upcoming matches in mid-January will determine which teams advance to the quarter-finals. The use of VAR may influence the dynamics of the games, as teams and referees adapt to its implementation. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if any Second Division teams can capitalize on their match-ups against top-tier clubs. The outcomes of these matches could have implications for team strategies and player performances in the subsequent rounds.
