Returning Bale key as Real Madrid progresses

Sports Desk: Gareth Bale provided a superb assist on his return from injury as Real Madrid battled to a 2-2 draw against Fuenlabrada on Wednesday (AEDT) to reach the last 16 of the Copa Del Rey 4-2 on aggregate.

Controversial penalties from Marco Asensio and Lucas Vazquez had given Madrid enough of an advantage from the first leg that Zidane named a team with an average age of 22 years and 156 days, the youngest XI he had picked at the club.

Fuenlabrada was given hope by the inexperienced team named by the Frenchman and the Segunda B side - which held Madrid's reserves Castilla 0-0 on Sunday - took a deserved lead against their under-strength neighbour.

Luis Milla's rocket from 25 yards was tipped on to the crossbar by fit-again goalkeeper Keylor Navas, the ball ricocheting off the Costa Rica international and into his own goal.

With Madrid unable to break down Fuenlabrada, Zidane brought on Bale after half-time and seconds after his introduction, with his first touch, the winger crossed for Borja Mayoral to head in his second goal of the season – immediately relieving any tension inside the Santiago Bernabeu.

And Bale and Mayoral teamed up again to settle the tie, the Welshman's initial effort saved by Pol Freixanet only for the young striker to keep his composure and slot in from close range.

Despite guaranteeing their progression Madrid was unable to hold on to victory on the night, though, as Alvaro Portilla secured a memorable draw for the visitor late on.

Source: beinsports.com



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