Zidane's 'Plan B' failed at the worst possible time

Real Madrid lost in the Copa del Rey 3-4 to Real Sociedad. They did so with a team that mixed first and second teams, following Zidane's plan to keep all the players happy.

Zidane has already explained that he will not change his style of managing the squad. It's all about having the players motivated for the final stretch of the season, when the titles are decided.

This time, however, the coach's instructions did not work. He opted to put in men of the calibre of Areola, Nacho, Militao, Marcelo or James and, especially in defence, Real Madrid did not measure up.

Areola conceded as many goals, four, as Courtois in the last eleven games. the team's biggest asset this season had been their solid defense, but it all crumbled against Real Sociedad.

Fingers were pointed, particularly towards Marcelo. His current form is far from what Real Madrid fans are used to, with the Brazilian seeming lost. 

Zidane wanted the Copa del Rey as a chance for those players who don't always make it into the starting eleven. His tactics had worked in the previous rounds, but Real Sociedad were superior and got a deserved victory. 

The trials ended for Real Madrid. Zidane, with La Liga and the Champions League at stake, will choose to play with the players who are offering the best performance.