Tensions Rise Over Spanish Futsal Fixture Scheduling
A scheduling dispute has erupted in Spanish futsal, with Jimbee Cartagena’s coach Eduardo Sao Thiago ‘Duda’ expressing strong criticism of the National Futsal Committee’s decision-making. The controversy centers around a rescheduled league match against Servigroup Peñíscola, set for Wednesday evening, just three days before Cartagena must defend their Spanish Super Cup title.
The match in question, originally postponed due to DANA (a severe weather event) in Valencia on November 2, has become a point of contention. Duda argues that the timing is unprecedented in futsal history, potentially compromising his team’s Super Cup preparation. The situation became more complex when earlier attempts to reschedule failed. Cartagena rejected a December 4 date due to UEFA Futsal Champions League commitments, while Peñíscola claimed venue unavailability for proposed January dates.
“This scheduling shows a complete lack of empathy from the Federation,” Duda stated. Highlighting the logistical challenge of traveling 1,000 kilometers round trip with minimal time to prepare for the upcoming Super Cup semifinal against Barça. He suggested that such scheduling decisions might not have been imposed on other teams, implying potential unfair treatment.
controversy
The controversy has expanded beyond this single fixture. The National Futsal Committee, led by José Miguel Monje, has also drawn criticism for making last-minute changes to the Super Cup semifinal schedule. Both Real Betis and ElPozo Murcia Costa Cálida expressed frustration upon learning through media reports that their match time had been adjusted by 15 minutes.
In related news, the Women’s Super Cup tournament has been confirmed for February 1-2 at the Móstoles Sur Municipal Pavilion. The competition will feature semifinals between Poio Pescamar and Futsi Atlético, followed by CD Burela FS facing Melilla CD Torreblanca, with the final scheduled for Sunday evening.
The scheduling controversy highlights broader concerns about fixture management in Spanish futsal and its impact on team preparation for major tournaments. While Duda has promised to move past these grievances once the Super Cup begins, the incident has raised questions about the federation’s decision-making processes and communication with clubs.
