Did it deliver?
For the clash with modest pre-match hype, this one delivered far beyond expectations thanks to a chaotic penalty shootout sequence and a missed spot-kick, even though the match itself finished scoreless.
Tavernes and Maracena cancelled each other out over 120 goalless minutes, with Maracena dominating territorially - racking up 126 dangerous attacks and six corners compared to Tavernes' 99 and three - but failing to turn that pressure into clear chances, managing just one shot on target. Tavernes were disciplined in defense, content to sit deep and absorb pressure before testing the Maracena goalkeeper sparingly themselves. The game swung on a missed penalty in extra time that could have settled matters in regulation, instead dragging the tie into a shootout where Tavernes kept their composure to win 4-2. For Maracena, sitting mid-table with decent recent form, this cup exit despite dominant underlying numbers will sting, while Tavernes - rooted near the bottom of their league - will take real confidence from grinding out a result against the odds.
Tavernes and Maracena go head-to-head in the Copa del Rey preliminary round second leg with everything to play for after a 1-1 first-leg stalemate. Whoever finds an edge on the day books their place in the next round.
Leads a varied Maracena forward line and will be key to breaking the deadlock away from home in this decisive leg.
Another attacking threat for Maracena who could prove decisive in a tie level on aggregate.
Part of a five-man forward group for Maracena, giving them multiple routes to find the goal that could settle the tie.
Tavernes
Maracena
Tavernes
Tavernes wins on penalties
