MADRID, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- Atletico Madrid is on the verge of a surprise exit from the Copa del Rey following a 3-0 defeat to second division side Recreativo Huelva on Wednesday night.

    Atletico is in the easier half of the draw in the Copa del Rey and was expected to progress a long way in this season's competition.

    However, although coach Quique Sanchez Flores fielded a strong team against Recreativo, his players were overwhelmed 3-0.

    Fornaroli and Jeronimo Barrales put the home side 2-0 ahead after just 23 minutes, by which time Atletico defender Ufaliusi had been sent off for dangerous play. Home striker Daniel Candeiasmade it 3-0 two minutes from time to complete Atletico's humiliation.

    Deportivo la Coruna also caused a minor shock with a 2-1 win away to Valencia.

    The only good news for Valencia was that winger David Silva returned to action with his side's goal of the game, but by then Deportivo was already 2-0 ahead thanks to goals from Guardado and Pablo Alvarez.

    There were no surprises in the nights other games, Villarreal is favourite to progress to the last eight after a 1-1 draw away to Celta Vigo, while Racing Santander secured a 3-2 away win away to Real Madrid's conquerors Alcorcon.