The spirit of “Super Depor” returns to Galicia tonight as Atlético Madrid travels to the Riazor for a high-stakes Copa del Rey Round of 16 clash. For Diego Simeone, it is a must-win game to save a season already stung by Super Cup disappointment.
After their recent elimination by Real Madrid in Saudi Arabia, Atlético Madrid has identified the Copa del Rey as their most realistic path to silverware in the 2025/26 season. However, standing in their way is a Deportivo La Coruña side fueled by a sell-out crowd and the magic of one of Spain’s most historic stadiums.
The ‘Yeremay’ Threat: Depor’s Secret Weapon
Deportivo may be outside the top flight, but their attack is currently one of the most exciting in Spanish football. All eyes tonight will be on Yeremay Hernández. The Galician number 10 is having a career-best season, leading the team in both goals and assists.
Alongside him, the clinical finishing of Zakaria Eddahchouri and the raw pace of young starlet David Mella provide a counter-attacking threat that Simeone’s aging defense will struggle to contain. For Depor fans, a victory tonight would signal the definitive “awakening of the sleeping giant.”
Simeone Under Pressure: No Room for Rotation
Diego “Cholo” Simeone is expected to field his strongest possible XI. Having suffered embarrassing cup exits to lower-league teams in the past, the Argentine manager cannot afford another slip-up.
- The Record: Atlético has won 7 of the last 10 meetings between the two, but the Riazor has historically been a graveyard for “Galacticos.”
- Tactical Focus: Stopping Yeremay in transition and dominating the physical battle in midfield will be Atlético’s priority.
Match Info & How to Watch
- Competition: Copa del Rey 2025/26 – Round of 16 (Single Leg)
- Date & Time: Tuesday, January 13, 2026 | 21:00 CET (17:00 Brasília time)
- Venue: Estadio Abanca-Riazor, A Coruña.
- Broadcaster: Disney+ (South America) / Movistar+ (Spain).
Predicted Lineups
- Deportivo La Coruña: Helton Leite; Ximo Navarro, Pablo Vázquez, Martínez, Obrador; José Ángel, Villares; David Mella, Yeremay Hernández, Lucas Pérez; Zakaria Eddahchouri.
- Atlético Madrid: Oblak; Molina, Giménez, Le Normand, Reinildo; De Paul, Koke, Gallagher; Griezmann, Julian Alvarez, Samuel Lino.
