Gabri Valero masterclass sends Real Madrid's youth team cruising into Copa last 16
Madrid's Juvenil A side dismantled Cádiz 4-0 with Valero providing two assists in a dominant cup performance that sets up a home tie against Mallorca.
Real Madrid’s youth prospects put on a proper show at Valdebebas as they swept Cádiz aside in the Copa Juvenil with Gabri Valero stealing the limelight.
Valero’s wizardry unlocks Cádiz
What a performance from the lad! Gabri Valero was absolutely unplayable down the right flank, tormenting Cádiz defenders all afternoon with his quick feet and vision. The young winger was the architect behind Madrid’s first two goals with a pair of inch-perfect crosses that broke the yellow wall.
The hosts dominated from the off, camping in Cádiz’s half and creating chances through every possible avenue. Despite early opportunities from corners, free-kicks and long-range efforts, Cádiz goalkeeper Aitor kept his side in the contest with several crucial saves.
It took half an hour for Madrid’s pressure to finally pay dividends. Valero produced a sublime bicycle skill to breeze past his marker before delivering a delicious cross that Adri Pérez met with a thunderous header. The goal was no more than Álvaro López’s side deserved after their relentless attacking.
Second-half dominance
While the first goal required patience, the second came just six minutes after the restart. Once again, it was that man Valero who created the magic, this time cutting inside sharply before floating a perfect ball to the back post where Ariel rose highest to double Madrid’s advantage.
From there, Madrid controlled proceedings with mature game management:
- Maintained possession expertly
- Continued their high press to prevent any Cádiz resurgence
- Remained defensively disciplined despite their comfortable lead
Late flourish adds gloss
As the game entered its final stages, Madrid weren’t done yet. Two stunning strikes in stoppage time from Reyes and Enzo Alves in the 90th and 93rd minutes respectively put the cherry on top of a commanding display.
The 4-0 scoreline perfectly reflected Madrid’s superiority throughout the tie, with the young Blancos never giving their opponents a sniff. The reward? A last-16 home clash against Mallorca back at Valdebebas, where they’ll fancy their chances of progressing further if they can reproduce this kind of form.
For Cádiz, it was a proper schooling from start to finish – they were simply outclassed by a Madrid side that looks like it has some serious talent coming through the ranks.