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0-2: Victory in the Copa del Rey

RCD Espanyol progress to the second round with a 2-0 win over CD Mensajero

RCD Espanyol opened their Copa del Rey campaign with a 2-0 win away at CD Mensajero on Tuesday night.

Luis García’s side began their cup campaign in La Palma, meeting fourth-tier side Mensajero in the first round. Espanyol were in control of the ball from the start and probing the home defence, with José Carlos Lazo’s rebound dragging wide from his free-kick.

Mensajero did not find themselves in the final third too often but were not far off with their first chance from Óscar González. Salvi Sánchez had a great chance but goalkeeper Alejandro Padilla got down well to deny him, then Lazo was deemed offside before his goal hit the back of the net.

Espanyol were getting closer to the opener, as Keita Balde hit the bar with his overhead kick. They would take the lead through Sánchez, slotting home Ramon Ramos’ cross which was fell nicely into his path. Sánchez was on it and scored a second just minutes later, chasing a loose ball that deflected off him and goalbound.  

With a two-goal advantage entering the second half, clear-cut chances were fair and few for Espanyol. Mensajero did seem to have that extra motivation to do themselves proud and tested Joan García, himself determined to keep a clean sheet in his first appearance of the season.

The hosts gave their all but the Mágico kept it tight at the back and saw out the result, coming away from La Palma with a comfortable win and a spot in the second round of the Copa del Rey.