Lunin to Start for Real Madrid Against Talavera in Copa del Rey

Monday 15-12-2025

Trusted journalist Mario Cortegana confirmed that Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is preparing to start in Real Madrid's lineup for the match against Talavera, in the Round of 32 of the Copa del Rey.

Real Madrid will visit Talavera on Wednesday evening at El Prado Stadium for the team's first match in the tournament.

According to Cortegana, the coaching staff decided to rest the Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and give Lunin the opportunity to start the match, as part of a rotation policy and to involve players with less playing time.

The match is expected to see Xabi Alonso rely on several substitute players, including Franco Mastantuono, Brahim Díaz, Gonzalo García, Indrik, and Dani Ceballos, due to the current busy schedule of matches.