Real Madrid Advance to Copa del Rey Quarter-Finals Despite Loss to Leganes

Leganes defeated Real Madrid 1-0 in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, but couldn't stop Los Blancos advancing to the quarter-finals 3-1 on aggregate.

A goal in the first half by Martin Braithwaite gave Leganes the victory in the second leg, but it was Los Blancos who advanced to the next stage.

Madrid were happy to consolidate in the match, allowing the hosts plenty of opportunities to attack in a poor local derby.

Isco's Time With Los Blancos Is Coming To An End

Valentina Angela/Associated Press

It was an uneventful night for the reigning UEFA Champions League holders, but eyes were fixed on Isco as the attacking midfielder was given a rare start.

New Real coach Santiago Solari has frozen the player out of his plans at the Bernabeu Stadium, and the Spain international has become a perennial substitute.

Vinicius Junior was also given another outing in the starting XI, with Real fans able to run the rule on the promising teenage prodigy.

The visitors showed little intent, and with a three-goal advantage in their pockets, it was a difficult night for Real's creative players.

Valentina Angela/Associated Press

Isco has cut a frustrated figure in recent weeks, and the departure of Zinedine Zidane last term has hit him hard.

As expected, Solari rotated his options for the game, but Isco could not take the opportunity to produce an eye-catching display.

The player lasted 67 minutes before being replaced, but ESPN's Dermot Corrigan said he would not have been surprised by an earlier departure:

Isco has been a fantastic servant for Los Blancos. However, the time has come for him to seek a new adventure elsewhere.

Ruben Jimenez of Marca wrote Isco should seek a swift transfer away from the Spanish capital in order to extend his career as a major talent.

The 26-year-old is too good to sit on the bench, but if he stays under the guidance of Solari, he will only remain a bit-part player in the Real squad.

What's Next

Both teams are back in La Liga action this weekend. Real host Sevilla on Saturday, with Leganes travelling to Barcelona on Sunday.