Third division side Olimpic Xativa earned a surprising goalless draw at home against Real Madrid, keeping their dream of defeating the best club of the history of football in the Copa del Rey.
Despite Carlo Ancelotti lining-up all first team players, Los Blancos struggled to find their best game due to the artificial turf of Xativa’s stadium.
The passion of the home side also balanced the possession at the start, but Los Blancos slowly took control of the game. However, the home side had their defence and midfield lines tightly closed, and it was difficult for Los Merengues to reach the box.
Youngsters Jese Rodriguez and Alvaro Morata didn’t have a good day, and constantly clashed against Olimpic’s defence. In fact, Real only shot on target once in the first half.
Iker Casillas didn’t have to intervene either, but his team was showing a very poor image.
Consequently, Ancelotti decided to replace Alvaro Arbeloa for Marcelo, in an attempt to gain more offensive options.
His strategy seemed to work as Olimpic started to show certain fatigue. A cross from Angel di Maria left Isco in front of the goalkeeper, but the Andalucian missed his shot.
Karim Benzema came off the bench to add more goalscoring options for Madrid, but none of Real strikers were lucky tonight. Morata, Jese and Benzema had one chance each to win the game, but either the goalkeeper or their poor shots prevented Los Blancos from bringing any advantage home.
Modest Olimpic lived a historical night for them, as they keep their chances of a cup shock alive before heading to Santiago Bernabeu for the second leg.
