Madrid gets tough draw in Copa del Rey

MADRID (AP) — Real Madrid has been given a tough draw to defend its Copa del Rey title, with possible matches against Atletico Madrid and Barcelona in its path before the semifinals.

Madrid and 2013 champion Atletico would meet if both advance past third-division opponents in the round of 32, the first with top division teams.

Barcelona, last year's runner-up with a record 26 cups, could be waiting in the quarterfinals.

"It will be more difficult to reach the final than last year," Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said. "It's the most complicated part (of the bracket), but that's the draw and we have to accept it."

Madrid and Atletico both travel to Barcelona to start the round of 32. Madrid will play Cornella and Atletico visits Hospitalet.

Barcelona, meanwhile, will play third-tier club Huesca.

Sevilla, Valencia and Athletic Bilbao are all on the other side of the bracket from the winners of the last three editions.

The round of 32 will be on Dec. 3 and 17, except for Madrid's match with Cornella, which will be played on Oct. 29 and Dec. 3 because of Madrid's participation in the Club World Cup.