Preview: Copa del Rey Round of 32 Clash Set for Riazor

A Coruña, Spain (Interstat) — The Copa del Rey round of 32 delivers a compelling clash of tiers on Tuesday as Deportivo La Coruña, a historic giant fighting its way back, hosts La Liga’s RCD Mallorca at Estadio Riazor.

The matchup, scheduled for Dec. 16, 2025, pits the third-division Galician side against top-flight opposition, embodying the tournament’s tradition of dramatic upsets.

Deportivo, a former La Liga champion, enters with significant momentum from the domestic cup. Their most recent result was a 2-0 victory over Sabadell U19 on Dec. 4, 2025, continuing a strong Copa run that includes a 5-1 rout of UD Sámano on Oct. 30, 2025. The team has shown potent scoring form in the competition.

Mallorca, which last played on Jan. 1, 1970, according to available data, will rely on its superior league status and organization. The Balearic Island club, a recent Copa del Rey finalist in 2023, is expected to control possession and tempo.

However, the atmosphere at Riazor is anticipated to be a significant factor. Deportivo’s passionate support, coupled with the team’s confidence from consecutive cup wins, could level the playing field against a Mallorca side likely to rotate its squad amid league commitments.

Statistical analysis from Interstat’s game simulator projects a narrow, tense affair, favoring the top-tier side with a 1-0 victory for Mallorca. This prediction underscores the expected defensive challenge for the hosts and Mallorca’s edge in quality.

Key tactical battles will likely unfold in midfield, where Deportivo’s work rate will attempt to disrupt Mallorca’s rhythm. The home side’s set-piece proficiency, evidenced in their recent victories, may present the best opportunity to breach a La Liga defense.

For Deportivo, the match represents a chance to recapture past glory on a national stage. For Mallorca, it is a test of focus and depth to avoid a classic cup embarrassment.

Kickoff is set for 9 p.m. local time at a sold-out Riazor, with the winner advancing to the round of 16.