Málaga CF seeks confidence in Copa del Rey opener

Málaga CF enters its Copa del Rey campaign looking to break a historical trend of early exits against lower-division opponents. The club has been eliminated by teams from inferior categories thirteen times in the 21st century, including recent losses to CD Estepona and Talavera.

In the current season, Málaga CF faces Sporting del Alcázar from the Primera Regional of Castilla-La Mancha. The match serves as a critical opportunity for the team to secure its first official victory of the season following a ten-match winless streak consisting of five draws.

Coach Funes is expected to manage the squad carefully, potentially providing minutes to players seeking rhythm, such as Larrubia and Chupe, or offering a starting opportunity to Swedish player Jens Cajuste. The club faces a busy week, with a subsequent match against Real Betis Balompié scheduled for the following Saturday.