Cartagena is all set to host the XXXV edition of the Spanish Cup. Jimbee aims to end the 22-year host’s curse. Since 2002, no team has won the tournament as the host, with only four achieving victory in the 34 previous editions. The melon team dreams of joining the select group of hosts who have lifted the cup trophy. Sego Zaragoza (1993), ElPozo Murcia (1995), Caja Segovia (1998), and Valencia Vijusa (2002).
Rafa Fernández, who was part of the Valencian team that clinched the title in 2002. Now serves as the goalkeeping coach and second coach for Eduardo Sao Thiago, also known as Doubt, at Jimbee Cartagena. “It was a remarkable achievement because, despite being the hosts, we were far from being favorites. It was a surprise that showcased the special essence of this tournament,” recalled Fernández, who was born on June 19, 1980, in Valencia and has won European and World championships.
Reflecting on the current scenario, Fernández stated, “Hosting doesn’t guarantee favoritism anymore. Unlike before, where a few teams stood out, surprises are now fewer.” He cautioned, “The Cup will be highly competitive; even the quarterfinal matchups exhibit remarkable equality.” While acknowledging the additional pressure of playing at home, Fernández emphasized, “We can’t ignore it. The buzz in the streets and the organization of the event indicate its significance.”
After securing victory in the Spanish Super Cup in January and debuting impressively, Jimbee Cartagena secured its place in the Copa del Rey Final Four in February. Fernández remarked, “The team is primed for significant matches; we’re evolving.” He added, “We’re asserting our position among the elites and demonstrating our winning mentality.”
The Spanish Cup returns to the Region of Murcia after 23 years
With all eyes on the upcoming derby that will conclude the quarterfinals next Friday. Fernández, who has experienced historic regional clashes, emphasized the significance of this showdown against their eternal rivals. “While the 2006 League final between ElPozo and Polaris was remarkable, this duel holds special importance. Both teams are in top form, and the victor will earn more than just a semifinal spot.”
With Cartagena hosting the tournament, a total of 24 cities across Spain have hosted the competition. Murcia and Zaragoza have each hosted the Spanish Cup three times, while several cities including Castellón, Ciudad Real, Logroño, Segovia, Valencia, Madrid, and Granada have hosted it twice. Additionally, cities like Cáceres, Lanzarote, Roquetas de Mar, Torrejón de Ardoz, Córdoba, Santiago, Pamplona, Lugo, Cuenca, Alcalá de Henares, Guadalajara, Málaga, and Jaén have hosted it once.
Miguel Ángel Jiménez, president of Jimbee Cartagena, emphasizes the responsibility both in organization and performance as the host team. He notes the historic significance and maximum aspirations associated with playing at home. Notably, the City Council of Cartagena has expanded the Sports Palace’s capacity by installing 775 additional seats, bringing the total to 4,815 seats from the previous 4,040.