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0-0 (2-4 pens): Shootout heartbreak

RCD Espanyol “Juvenil A” (under-19s) lose the Copa del Rey Juvenil Final on penalties

RCD Espanyol “Juvenil A” (under-19s) were defeated 4-2 on penalties after a 0-0 draw with RCD Mallorca in the Copa del Rey Juvenil Final.

The two best teams in their category competed for the title of Copa del Rey champion, at the impressive stage of the Estadio Carlos Tartiere in Oviedo. Javi Chica’s boys had overcome hosts Real Oviedo in the semi-final, and were now one step away from a fifth cup in the history of La21.  

The reality is that Mallorca were on top at the beginning, warning early on with two good headers to be denied by an inspired Llorenç Serred in goal. Espanyol grew into it as the minutes passed, though with the exception of a long shot by José Ángel, the team barely tested the Balearic side.

The young pericos came out better after the break and made more entries into the final third, and they should have had a penalty when the goalkeeper brought down Sergio Rivarés; instead the referee gave it as a foul against the Mallorca keeper.

Espanyol were in control, though Llorenç had to be on guard to deny Woiski from range. With no goals in normal time, the final went to extra time. The Mágico continued with the same intensity and intention, as Pallàs had a magnificent opportunity and Torondel hit the post from outside box. But it was not enough to get on the scoresheet, and after 120 minutes of quality football, it would be decided by a penalty shootout.

Chica’s boys did what they could in the shootout, but a penalty off the woodwork and a saved spot kick at the end meant Espanyol fell to an agonising 4-2 defeat on penalties. Espanyol gave everything and have made everyone at the Club proud, even though it was not meant to be this time.