Álvaro Arbeloa's managerial career at Real Madrid began inauspiciously with a shocking 3-2 defeat to Albacete in the Copa del Rey. The loss, in the round of 16, came just days after Xabi Alonso was relieved of his duties following a Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona.

Arbeloa opted for sweeping changes in his first match, but the freshness didn't translate to success as Real Madrid struggled to create chances against their Segunda division opponents. Albacete, currently 17th in the second tier of Spanish football, took the lead in the 43rd minute through a Javi Villar header from a corner. Real Madrid responded in stoppage time of the first half, with Franco Mastantuono reacting quickly to fire home after Albacete goalkeeper Raul Lizoain saved Dean Huijsen's header.

Albacete did not back down and Jefte Betancor scored in the 82nd minute to make it 2-1. Real Madrid again responded in stoppage time with Gonzalo Garcia heading in from an Arda Guler corner. However, Albacete dashed any hopes of extra time as Jefte Betancor scored his second goal in the 94th minute, securing a historic victory.

The defeat marks Real Madrid's first ever loss to Albacete in 15 meetings. This result means that Real Madrid are out of the Copa del Rey. The only trophies available for Real Madrid are La Liga and the Champions League. Arbeloa, who turns 43 on Saturday, had emphasized the importance of winning at the club, but his message seemingly did not resonate in the match. He said after the match that every defeat is a tragedy at Real Madrid.

The loss is a significant setback for Real Madrid, who have now lost two of the four possible trophies they could have won this season in less than a week. Albacete's victory was well-deserved and brilliant.