Spain's Copa del Rey kicks off with few surprises on cards in first round

MADRID, Oct. 27 (Xinhua) -- The first round of Spain's Copa del Rey knockout competition kicks off this week with matches held on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Although the first and second rounds of the Copa don't include Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Athletic Club, who will play in the Spanish Super Cup in January, they do provide plenty of excitement as the competition format places the te