In the grand tapestry of Spanish football, the Copa del Rey final holds a special place, offering a unique spectacle that intertwines the narratives of underdogs and footballing royalty. This Saturday's final between Athletic Club and Mallorca is no exception, presenting a compelling clash that encapsulates the essence of the competition. Athletic Club, with its rich history and a recent resurgence under Ernesto Valverde, face a Mallorca side that have shown resilience and tenacity to reach this stage against the odds.
Date: 06/04/2024
Kick-off time: 21:00
Location: Estadio La Cartuja
Athletic Club, based in Bilbao and one of the founding members of La Liga, currently sit 4th in the league with 56 points from 29 games. This season has been a revelation for the club, marking what could potentially be their best campaign in over a decade. Under the guidance of Ernesto Valverde, a manager renowned for his tactical nous and ability to galvanize his squad, Athletic have been formidable. Last season's 8th place finish is now a distant memory as they eye a 4th place finish for the first time since the 2013-14 season. Despite the slender one-point lead over Atlético Madrid in 5th, Athletic's form and confidence suggest they are well-placed to maintain their position.
The road to the Copa del Rey final has been a testament to Athletic's resilience and quality. Their journey included victories over Rubí, Cayón, Eibar, Alaves, a notable win against Barcelona, and a semifinal triumph over Atlético Madrid. These victories not only showcased their ability to perform under pressure but also highlighted the depth and talent within the squad.
Key to Athletic's success has been the Williams brothers, Iñaki and Nico, whose pace and skill on the wings have terrorised defences across Spain. Nico, at just 21, has emerged as one of Europe's most sought-after talents, already a full Spanish international with a bright future ahead.
On the other side, Mallorca's journey to the final has been equally compelling, though for different reasons. The club, currently 15th in La Liga with 31 points from 30 games, have faced a challenging league campaign. After an impressive 9th place finish last season, expectations were high, but this year has seen a struggle for consistency. Sitting just six points clear of the relegation zone, Mallorca's focus in the league has been on survival. However, their Copa del Rey campaign has been a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season.
Mallorca's route to the final, while deemed easier than Athletic's, included significant victories over Girona and Real Sociedad, the latter via a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. These wins not only demonstrated Mallorca's capability to rise to the occasion but also highlighted the team's unity and determination.
Mallorca's strength lies in their collective effort rather than individual brilliance. Players like goalkeeper Dominik Greif and striker Vedat Muriqi have been instrumental, but it's the team's overall cohesion and work rate, fostered by manager Javier Aguirre, that have propelled them to the final.
The 2003 Copa del Rey winners, Mallorca, are aiming to replicate their crowning achievement by securing a second title. This ambition is bolstered by their underdog status, which could play in their favour as they look to upset the odds against a formidable Athletic side.
The head-to-head record between the two teams in recent encounters suggests a tightly contested match. With Athletic Club winning the most recent league meeting 4-0 just two months ago, Mallorca will be keen to avenge that loss and prove their worth on the biggest stage.
Athletic Club, with a history steeped in success and a 40-year drought in this competition, are hungry to add a 24th Copa del Rey crown to their trophy cabinet. Having been losing finalists twice in the last four seasons, and five times since the 2008-09 campaign, their determination to triumph is palpable.
Mallorca, on the other hand, carry the hopes of a team and a fanbase eager to relive the glory of 2003. Their journey to the final, marked by resilience and team spirit, has been a beacon of hope in a challenging season.
Primera División 
