Five months after the Uzbekistan World Cup, the First Division kicked off amidst limited media attention and criticism of the RFEF National Futsal Committee, chaired by José Miguel Monje. In the first round, Industrias García pulled off a shock by defeating Palma Futsal 4-2. Xavi Closas, the coach of Industrias García, harshly criticized the new season’s schedule and rule changes. Arguing that it caters to “leaders on couches” who invent demanding calendars, including midweek games and Copa del Rey matches. By December 29, the team will have played 12 league matches and one Copa del Rey fixture. Closas expressed frustration over the holiday schedule, saying they will also compete in the Catalonia Cup.
New Rule
Like many coaches, Closas opposed the new rule allowing throw-ins to be taken with either the hand or foot, stating, “it feels like the Kings League”. His team benefitted from the new rule, scoring their final goal after a quick hand-throw by Bernat Povil. The rule is being tested in Spain, with data collected at the season’s end to determine its future in the sport.
Jimbee Cartagena, the reigning champions, began with a 2-1 away win against Viña Albali Valdepeñas. Coach Eduardo ‘Duda’ criticized the poorly planned schedule, especially considering Cartagena’s Champions League commitments. He found it unreasonable to start the league just five days after the World Cup. He questioned the decision to play two Champions League phases so close together.
Duda had mixed feelings about the rule changes, noting that while most agree with the goalkeeper throw-in rule, the flexibility for throw-ins from the touchline seemed half-baked. He suggested adding corner kicks to the rule for consistency.
Meanwhile, former goalkeeper Luis Amado was appointed head of the First and Second Divisions. A move that clubs were informed about just hours before the season began. Some saw this as another example of the competition’s disorganized management.
The first day of the league saw notable results, including ElPozo Murcia’s 5-2 win over Barça and Osasuna Magna’s 7-2 victory against Córdoba Heritage. Movistar Inter had a strong 4-1 win against newly promoted Sala 10, and Jaén Paraíso Interior returned to the top division with a 4-1 win over Pescados Rubén Burela.
