Pellegrini: “I’m very ashamed”

The defeat against Alcorcon (4-0) will definitely go down in history as one of the most painful losses ever for Real Madrid. Despite the absence of starplayers like Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka and Xabi Alonso, Madrid sended a strong team packed with internationals on to the pitch. However, the third division club thrashed Los Merengues.

At half time, the score was already 3-0 and after the break Alcorcon added another goal to their tally.

“I’m very ashamed,” Real Madrid boss Manuel Pellegrini told Marca. “There is no reason or explanation for how the team has surrendered. We must come forward and each take the responsibilities that we have to change things in the next game.

“No explanations, the group worked hard all week. We were focussed and training was good, but Alcorcon have played very well.”

Real hasn’t won the Copa del Rey since 1983 and will have to put up a very strong performance in the second leg (scheduled on November 10) to see off their opponents and progress to the next round.

“There is little I can say. We must react. We will find difficult opponents everywhere. You have to play well against all sides.

“We have had a very tough loss but there is the return leg and we must show pride. It’s a shame, I hope the fans will forgive us and we can move forward,” concluded Pellegrini.