Espanyol Faces Challenging Copa del Rey Match Against Atlètic Lleida

Lleida, Spain — Espanyol is set to make its debut in the Copa del Rey against Atlètic Lleida on Thursday, October 30. After celebrating its 125th anniversary, Espanyol aims to build on its momentum as it takes on a team from Segunda RFEF.

Coach Manolo González expressed excitement about the tournament, emphasizing the importance of avoiding overconfidence following their previous Copa elimination against Barbastro last year. “We need to be very focused because this is a serious year for us. We want to win in La Liga and make a deep run in the Copa,” he said.

González noted that this match serves as an opportunity for players who have not seen much action in the league to prove themselves. “The Copa is a chance for those with fewer minutes to shine. If the team doesn’t compete like usual, I’ll be very disappointed,” he stated.

Two players likely to make an impact are Kike García, who will start, and goalkeeper Fortuño. González expressed his confidence in García, suggesting that the Copa could be his tournament. “He’s going to play unless he’s injured or suspended,” González mentioned.

González also highlighted Atlètic Lleida’s strengths, urging his team not to underestimate them. “They are a good team that competes well. They have speed and know how to play,” he explained. He encouraged his players to treat this match seriously to advance in the tournament.

Kike Garcia, who scored in Espanyol’s last match, will be a key player. “He has good technical skills, and I believe he can elevate his performance if given more minutes,” González noted.

González confirmed that players from the youth team might be included based on their recent performances. “We will only take those who have earned their spots,” he clarified.

In reflecting on the match’s significance, González remarked, “We’re here to fight for both the Copa and European qualification. We want to secure points quickly and see how far we can go in this competition.”

The match kicks off at the Camp D’Esports, where a strong showing from Espanyol’s fans is expected.