The Standard Group Plc is a multi-media organization with investments in media platforms spanning newspaper print operations, television, radio broadcasting, digital and online services. The Standard Group is recognized as a leading multi-media house in Kenya with a key influence in matters of national and international interest.

Standard Group Plc HQ Office,
The Standard Group Center,Mombasa Road.
P.O Box 30080-00100,Nairobi, Kenya.
Telephone number: 0203222111, 0719012111
Email: [email protected]

NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

The Nairobian

Atletico thump third-tier Rayo Majadahonda 5-0 in Copa del Rey

Football

By Reuters | Jan 07, 2022

**Atletico Madrid's Luis Suarez** REUTERS

Atletico Madrid thrashed third-tier Rayo Majadahonda 5-0 away in the Copa del Rey to reach the last 16 on Thursday.

A year after Atleti suffered a humiliating 1-0 loss to Unio Esportiva Cornella in the last-32, manager Diego Simeone played a full-strength side against their neighbours, ensuring there was no chance of any surprises this time.

Matheus Cunha, Renan Lodi and Luis Suarez gave Atletico a comfortable lead in the first half. Antoine Griezmann, who came off injured, and Joao Felix wrapped up the win after the break.

"Of course, the Cup is a priority for us," Brazilian striker Matheus Cunha told reporters. "You have to win regardless of who you are. The most important thing is to win and advance."

It was a solid performance by Atletico the day after holders Barcelona and Real Madrid had trouble beating lower-tier sides.

Keep Reading

On Wednesday Barca fought back to secure a 2-1 win at third-tier Linares Deportivo, while Real gained revenge for defeat by Alcoyano last year as they won 3-1 with two late goals.

They joined Sevilla, Cadiz, Elche, Athletic Bilbao, Espanyol, Real Sociedad, Valencia, Real Betis, Rayo Vallecano, Mallorca and third-tier Atletico Baleares, who eliminated LaLiga side Celta Vigo with a 2-1 win on Wednesday, in the next round.

Two other top tier sides were eliminated on Thursday by lower division teams. Unai Emery’s Villarreal lost 2-1 at Sporting Gijon and Osasuna went down 1-0 at Girona, with both second-tier clubs also advancing into the last-16.

The draw for the next round will take place at the Spanish Football Federation on Friday. Lower-tier teams will be drawn first to host LaLiga sides after which it will be an open draw.