Real Madrid thrash minnows Cultural Leonesa in Copa del Rey

REAL MADRID cruised into a commanding first-leg lead against minnows Cultural Leonesa in the Copa del Rey despite the absence of star men Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale.

Despite fielding a depleted side without the BBC attack trio, which did still include key men Toni Kroos, James Rodriguez, Isco and Pepe, the Blancos recorded an empathetic 7-1 victory over the third tier outfit.

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Zinedine Zidane's side took the early advantage thanks to an own goal from Gianni Zuiverloon.

Alvaro Morata helped himself to a brace as did Marco Asensio.

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The former continued his recent good form after notching in his last two appearances - against Athletic Bilbao and Leagia Warsaw - despite not starting a game until tonight since late September.

Further strikes from Nacho and Mariano Diaz made it a magnificent seven for Madrid.

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There was one moment of joy for Cultural Leonesa as Benja Martinez struck a late consolation against the Champions League holders.

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But he and his team-mates can expect another thumping in the return leg next month at the Bernabeu.

Madrid last lifted the Copa del Rey in 2014.