A CORUEA, Spain, Jan 14, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Antoine Griezmann's free-kick helped Atletico Madrid squeeze past second-tier Deportivo La Coruna 1-0 on Tuesday to reach the Copa del Rey quarter-finals. Veteran forward Griezmann's perfectly-placed effort broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, as the sides met for the first time in nearly eight years. French forward Griezmann, 34, struck the woodwork towards the end of the first half as Atletico dominated but could not find a way through. Shortly afterwards Atletico took the lead, with Griezmann delicately curling a free-kick into the top right corner from just outside the area, and it proved decisive. Real Madrid, led by new coach Alvaro Arbeloa, visit Albacete on Wednesday and Copa del Rey holders Barcelona travel to face second division leaders Racing Santander on Thursday.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 14, 2026 04:05 UTC