The 14 trophies of the absent Movistar Inter may seem distant, but recent news from the Spanish Futsal Super Cup reveals a clear dominator: Barça. With four titles adorning the culés’ showcases, including the last two editions, their near-monopoly in national competitions cements their status as the top favorite.
Curiously, the semifinals pit them against Jaén, the reigning Spanish Cup champions. Despite the Blaugranas’ dominance in most tournaments, Jaén has compelling reasons to vie for victory. Their current streak boasts nine wins in their last ten games between the League and the Copa del Rey. Moreover, they’ve shown the ability to upset the almighty Barça in knockout tournaments, as they did securing their first Spanish Cup title in 2015. Their squad’s quality, featuring players in top form like Alan Brandi, Chino, Mati Rosa, and Dani Zurdo, adds to their strengths.
“The team is highly motivated, and we’ll approach this Super Cup at our best. Our recent form instills a lot of confidence,” said Jaén’s Dani Zurdo in an interview with AS. He emphasized the significance of facing Barça early in the tournament, aiming to gain momentum if they secure a win, given the transformative nature of Barça in such matches. The match holds special significance as it’s played in Jaén’s homeland, with their fans adding another layer of support.
If there’s a strategy to challenge a dominant Barça side that leads the league and has secured a spot in the Champions League Final Four, it’s through scoring goals. Zurdo’s memorable strikes this season have gained attention, showcasing his knack for crucial goals: “I don’t seem to score easy ones (laughs). I have confidence, and I feel good. Personally, I believe I’ll have a good Super Cup.”
Aside from Jaén, Palma Futsal, currently the regular league leader, also eyes the title. They start their semifinal against Jimbee Cartagena, the Copa del Rey runner-up. While Palma enters as favorites, Jimbee previously triumphed in their last encounter: a 4-2 league win. Experience could play a pivotal role, favoring Palma, who aim to secure a title within Spanish territory, a feat they’ve yet to achieve, having won only international trophies (Champions and Intercontinental). The stage is set for thrilling showdowns.
Spanish Super Cup schedules
Semifinals (Saturday, January 6)
Palma Futsal – Jimbee Cartagena (4:00 p.m.)
Barça – Jaén FS (18:15h)
Final (Sunday, January 7)
Semifinal winner 1 – semifinal winner 2 (6:15 p.m.)
*all matches can be followed live through Teledeporte