ElPozo Murcia Costa Cálida is discovering its peak form in the stronghold of its eternal rival. After eliminating Jimbee Cartagena in the quarterfinals on Friday – the host of the Spanish Cup – they have now toppled Jaén Paraíso Interior (5-4) – the reigning champions – in an epic showdown. With just four seconds left, they forced penalties with an own goal from Míchel. Juanjo Angosto then blocked the decisive shot from Arnon Cassemiro, securing their spot in the final against Barça.
Both teams, Jiennenses and Murcians, defied prevailing defensive strategies in a Spanish Cup that had been lacking offensive flair, rekindling the tournament’s intensity. A rapid exchange of goals, accompanied by a thunderous soundtrack from Andalusian fans who filled the Palacio de los Deportes in Cartagena, illuminated this modest edition.
In hostile territory, adorned with a sea of yellow flags, Marlon put ElPozo ahead in the 6th minute, only for Renato to swiftly equalize. Renato, with two exceptional goals, emerged as the standout player. However, technological intervention denied him a hat-trick after an error in Pablo Taborda’s delivery. Despite Marcel restoring ElPozo’s lead, Renato and Alan Brandi asserted their champion status with crucial goals. Dani Martínez’s squad, relentless in their pursuit, forced penalties with Míchel’s own goal seconds before the final whistle.
The Spanish Cup finalists emerged from the six-meter spot, but this match differed drastically from the first, embodying the essence of a cup semi-final. In the penalty shootout, the heroics of Juanjo Angosto, at 38 years old, proved decisive. Despite being a substitute against the formidable Edu Sousa, Angosto showcased his historic penalty-saving prowess, denying Arnon’s crucial shot.
Showdown
In the final showdown, Barça awaits, having secured their place after a lackluster performance against Mallorca Palma Futsal. Despite grappling with injuries and fixture congestion, the league champions triumphed, setting the stage for their seventh Spanish Cup title bid. The desolate stands, sparsely populated, tell a tale of what was expected to be a thrilling encounter, reminiscent of a UEFA Futsal Champions League final.
Barça seized the lead through Dyego’s free-kick in the 28th minute, only for Neguinho to equalize from a rebound inside the box. With the score deadlocked at 1-1, the match was settled via penalties. Feixas and Dídac Plana proved instrumental for Barça, while Bruno Gomes and Rivillos faltered, allowing Dyego to seal the deal with the decisive penalty.
Despite facing adversity, with key players sidelined, Barça’s survival instinct remains intact as they eye their first silverware of the season. Meanwhile, Mallorca Palma Futsal, perennial contenders, aim to break their domestic cup curse by securing their maiden title.
The Spanish Cup final stands as the ultimate prize in domestic competition, a challenge yet unconquered by Mallorca Palma Futsal. Despite past setbacks, including a Copa del Rey loss in 2016 and a League defeat in 2022, their international triumphs fuel their ambition, epitomized by their historic Intercontinental Cup victory in 2023.
