The magic of cup football is alive and well in Spain as the Copa del Rey last 16 draw has set up a series of inspiring matchups that promise to captivate fans across the country and beyond.

In what represents a golden opportunity for Spain's second division teams, several lower-tier clubs will get their moment in the spotlight against some of football's most prestigious names. Racing Santander will welcome defending champions Barcelona to their home ground, while Albacete earns the honor of hosting Real Madrid in what promises to be unforgettable occasions for both clubs and their passionate supporters.

These matchups represent far more than just games on a calendar. For the second division sides, they're career-defining moments and chances to create memories that will last generations. The financial boost from hosting such giants, combined with the invaluable experience of competing against world-class talent, makes these draws truly special for the smaller clubs involved.

The tournament's format, which pairs Spanish Super Cup participants with the lowest-ranked remaining teams until the later stages, ensures that football's romantic spirit stays alive. This system creates opportunities that might otherwise never exist, allowing communities across Spain to rally behind their local heroes as they face seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Athletic Bilbao will travel to Cultural Leonesa, while Atletico Madrid faces a particularly intriguing matchup against two-time Copa del Rey winners Deportivo La Coruna. Though Deportivo currently competes in the second tier, their rich history and cup pedigree add an extra layer of excitement to what promises to be a compelling encounter.

The beauty of knockout football lies in its unpredictability. On any given day, with the right preparation, belief, and a passionate home crowd behind them, these second division teams have the chance to write their names into Spanish football folklore. History has shown us time and again that cup competitions produce magical moments when underdogs rise to the occasion.

For football purists, these matchups scheduled for January 13-15 represent everything beautiful about the beautiful game. They remind us that football isn't just about money and star power—it's about community, passion, and the dream that anything is possible over ninety minutes.

The complete draw also features exciting all-top-flight matchups, including Real Sociedad versus Osasuna and Alaves against Rayo Vallecano, ensuring variety and competitive balance throughout the round. Burgos will host Valencia, Betis welcomes Elche, creating a diverse mix of challenges across the tournament.

As these matches approach, anticipation builds not just in Barcelona and Madrid, but in smaller cities and towns across Spain where football dreams burn just as brightly. These games will bring national television coverage, packed stadiums, and economic benefits to communities that treasure these rare opportunities to showcase their clubs on the grandest domestic stage.

The Copa del Rey continues to prove why it remains one of football's most beloved competitions—a tournament where giants and underdogs share the same pitch, and where magical memories are just waiting to be created.