La Liga
Copa del Rey Final: Athletic Bilbao vs Real Mallorca
Athletic Bilbao will be looking to end their streak of defeats in finals as they face off against Real Mallorca at La Cartuja in Seville.
Despite being the second most successful team in Copa del Rey history, Athletic Bilbao has faced disappointment in their recent final appearances. With brothers Inaki & Nico Williams leading their attack, Athletic is considered the favorites, but Mallorca, under coach Javier Aguirre, thrives in the underdog role.
Athletic Bilbao’s last Copa del Rey triumph dates back to 1984, & they are determined to secure victory in their 40th final appearance. The team’s painful losses in the 2020 final against Real Sociedad & the 2021 final against Barcelona remain, but they are focused on overcoming their past setbacks. Inaki Williams emphasized the importance of playing in front of their fans and expressed confidence in their ability to perform well in the final.
“We are calm, with the confidence that we can do well because very few teams have been able to beat us this season,” said Inaki Williams. “We know Athletic are going through a moment of very good form, with a lot of players at a very good level. That’s what we will try to capture in the final – to be ourselves, play with bravery, as we are doing, and without fear of defeat.”
Despite Athletic’s strengths, Mallorca remains fearless. Striker Vedat Muriqi acknowledged Athletic as the favorites but believes Mallorca can use the pressure to their advantage. With a strong defensive record, Athletic will look to contain Mallorca’s physical strike partnership of Muriqi and Larin. Coach Aguirre’s experience & tactics have been instrumental in Mallorca’s journey to the final, & the team is ready to seize their opportunity for glory.
“Aguirre is like having another player, he has that experience & knows how to talk to the referee, how to motivate, how to demotivate… we are lucky to have this coach,” Muriqi stated.
Athletic will have another chance to end four decades of frustration & finally claim cup number 24 today when they play Mallorca in the Copa del Rey final in Seville.
