Real Madrid vs. Ponferradina: Complete Preview, Live Stream and Schedule

Real Madrid will look to move one step closer to defending their Copa del Rey title when Ponferradina comes to the Santiago Bernabeu for the second leg of their fourth-round series in domestic cup play. Los Blancos dodged the upset spell that had befallen its La Liga compatriots, topping La Ponfe at El Toralin last Tuesday, 2-0.

Where: Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain

When: Tuesday, December 20th at 2:00 p.m. EST

Watch: ESPN Deportes, GolTV-Canada,Sport TV1, Sport+, Sky Calcio 2, Setanta Africa

Live Stream: ESPN3

Player to Watch for Real Madrid: Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo put to rest any concerns about him being out of form with vintage performances in his last two outings. The Portuguese pretty boy had come under fire for his disappearing act during Madrid's 3-1 loss to arch rival Barcelona in El Clasico. Ronaldo has since responded with a goal against Ponferradina and a hat trick in Los Blancos' 6-2 stomping of Sevilla in La Liga play.

He won't likely be in for long against La Ponfe on Tuesday, seeing as how Madrid already have a two-goal advantage, though he figures to put on a show for the home supporters during the time that he's on the pitch.

Player to Watch for Ponferradina: Yuri

Should La Ponfe ever manage to wrestle the ball out of Madrid's control, look for Yuri to be the one leading the charge. The Brazilian attacker has been a fixture around the lower levels of Spanish football since his move over from neighboring Portugal in 2005. If Ponferradina is to have any hope to hang with Los Blancos, they'll need Yuri to force the action on the pitch.

Key Matchup: Los Blancos vs. Themselves

Realistically speaking, the only way this match is anything other than a decisive victory for Real Madrid is if Jose Mourinho's squad either chooses to let up or destroys itself with stupid mistakes along the way.

Or both.

What They're Saying

The accolades are seemingly never-ending for Real Madrid, and rightfully so, given how deep and talented their first-team squad is.

Karim Benzema is just the latest member of Los Blancos to garner recognition for his excellence on the pitch. According to ESPN Soccernet, Benzema has been named the French player of the year by France Football magazine. Benzema has thus far notched 26 goals in 2011 during what has been a spectacular coming-of-age year for the 23-year-old forward.

Said Benzema of the honor:

"

It is a pleasure to win an individual trophy. When I see the previous winners—Zidane, (Thierry) Henry and other major players—it makes me proud to join them on the list.

"

Prediction: Real Madrid 3, Ponferradina 0

If ever there were a mismatch in Spanish football, this might well be it. On the one hand is Madrid, one of the best clubs in the world and the pole-sitter in Spain's top league. On the other hand is Ponferradina, which was just recently relegated to the third level of Spanish football.

La Ponfe were lucky to lose by only two goals to a Madrid side coming off a disappointing loss to Barca. They won't be so fortunate this time around.

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