Servigroup Peñíscola Claims Historic Spanish Cup Title
In a stunning display of determination and skill, Servigroup Peñíscola has etched its name in Spanish futsal history by capturing their first-ever Spanish Cup championship. The underdog squad from Castellón defeated Palma Futsal 4-3 in a thrilling final at the Murcia Sports Palace, becoming the first new champion in a decade since Jaén Paraíso Interior’s triumph in 2015.
This victory carries special significance as both finalists in the XXXVI edition of the tournament had never before reached the final stage. The matchup broke a long-standing pattern, marking the first time since 1991 that two teams without previous final appearances competed for the title. For Servigroup Peñíscola, this achievement came in just their third tournament participation.
What makes their triumph even more remarkable is that they accomplished it without several key players, including their captain Elijah, star player Pani, and pivotal forward Diego Quintela. Despite these absences, the team demonstrated exceptional depth and resilience. Argentine Luciano Gauna, later named MVP, opened the scoring in the fourth minute, setting the tone for their historic victory.
Diego Sancho doubled their lead later in the first half, outmaneuvering Palma’s goalkeeper Marcelo. Who had missed earlier rounds due to passport issues during international duty with Brazil. Bruno Gomes pulled one back for Palma before halftime, but Gauna restored Peñíscola’s two-goal advantage shortly after.
After the break, Pablo Muñoz—a young player from Málaga who joined in December on loan from Real Betis—scored Peñíscola’s fourth goal. Off an assist from veteran Gus. Palma’s Fabinho narrowed the gap to 4-3, but Peñíscola’s defense held firm, even after Fabinho received a red card in the final minute for a foul on Gauna.
the victory
This victory represents a meteoric rise for Servigroup Peñíscola. A club founded in 2000 that reached Spain’s Second Division in 2011 and the top flight just a year later. Their path to the championship included defeating league leaders Jimbee Cartagena in the quarterfinals and humbling Barcelona in the semifinals before overcoming two-time Champions League and Intercontinental Cup winners Palma in the final.
The emotional victory was dedicated to former club president Juan Vizcarro, who passed away from COVID-19 in January 2022 at age 57. The triumph has brought joy to the coastal town of Peñíscola, a popular family tourist destination with just over 8,000 residents.
With eight league matches remaining, Servigroup Peñíscola now has an opportunity to also claim the regular season championship, which would secure home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. Additionally, they have qualified for the Copa del Rey Final Four, scheduled for May 17-18 at the Cartagena Sports Palace.
