Loren Aguado: 'We knew we had a chance from the first moment'
Former Real Madrid academy player Loren Aguado reflects on Albacete's historic Copa del Rey upset over his boyhood club, discussing the team's belief and his duel with Vinícius.
The Real Madrid academy graduate who helped orchestrate one of the biggest cup shocks in recent Spanish football history still can’t quite believe what he and his Albacete teammates achieved against the European champions.
‘Something historic for the city’
Lorenzo ‘Loren’ Aguado played a crucial role as Albacete stunned Real Madrid in their Copa del Rey clash, eliminating the club where he learned his trade as a youngster. The full-back described the occasion as “very special” both for himself and the entire city, acknowledging the magnitude of what they’d accomplished.
“I’m still digesting it all,” admitted Aguado, whose emotions must have been all over the shop facing his former employers. Imagine turning over the gaffer who gave you your P45 – proper satisfaction, that.
The defender revealed the rollercoaster of emotions when Madrid equalized late on, momentarily threatening to rain on Albacete’s parade:
- “Everything goes through your head, you’re already thinking about extra time”
- But the team showed remarkable resilience to regroup and secure their passage
Blueprint for the upset
What’s particularly impressive about Albacete’s triumph was their unwavering belief from the opening whistle. No deer in headlights here – they fancied their chances against the Spanish giants despite the obvious gulf in resources.
Aguado explained their approach was about sticking together and focusing on their own game plan rather than being overwhelmed by Madrid’s star-studded lineup. The change of manager at Madrid wasn’t even a factor in their preparation – they knew regardless of who was in the dugout, they’d be facing world-class talent.
Vinícius challenge and looking forward
When asked about facing one of football’s most dangerous attackers in Vinícius Jr, Aguado was refreshingly honest:
“You’re never fully prepared for Vinícius attacking you – he’s one of the best in the world,” he admitted, though he acquitted himself admirably against the Brazilian superstar.
The defender hopes this monumental victory can provide the spark Albacete need to turn around their challenging league campaign. After a result like this, you’d be barmy not to believe anything is possible.