Pontevedra vs Getafe

Pontevedra CF will aim to script yet another chapter in their remarkable Copa del Rey journey when they host Getafe at the Estadio Municipal de Pasarón for a highly anticipated last-16 encounter. This fourth-tier side has already defied the odds in spectacular fashion, eliminating two La Liga teams along the way, including a stunning victory over Mallorca in the round of 32. Meanwhile, Getafe, a more seasoned top-flight team, edged past Granada in their most recent cup tie and now face the challenge of halting Pontevedra’s dream run.

Pontevedra’s achievements this season have captivated fans and pundits alike. For the first time since the 1971-72 campaign, the club has reached the last 16 of the Copa del Rey, marking an extraordinary achievement for the Segunda Federación outfit. Their cup journey began with a commanding 4-1 victory over Segunda División side Levante, a result that set the tone for what was to come. They followed up this impressive performance with a stunning upset over Villarreal, securing a 1-0 win against the La Liga club in the second round. However, their most memorable triumph came in the third round, where they dismantled last season’s Copa del Rey runners-up, Mallorca, in a dominant 3-0 display. Goals from Dalisson, Yelko Pino, and Rufo Sánchez cemented Pontevedra’s place as one of the competition’s most surprising and inspiring stories.

Beyond their cup heroics, Pontevedra’s success extends to their league campaign, where they currently sit atop the Segunda Federación - Group 1 standings. Under the guidance of manager Yago Iglesias, the team has amassed an impressive record of 12 wins, four draws, and only two defeats in 18 league matches. Their consistency and resilience have been hallmarks of their season, as evidenced by their current 15-game unbeaten streak in competitive fixtures. Since their narrow 1-0 defeat to Marino de Luanco on October 6, Pontevedra has not tasted defeat, showcasing their ability to grind out results across various competitions. A goalless draw against Valladolid Promesas last weekend further extended their unbeaten run, providing yet another boost to their confidence ahead of the clash with Getafe.

The Estadio Municipal de Pasarón has become a fortress for Pontevedra, with the team winning their last six home matches by an aggregate scoreline of 14-3. This formidable home form will undoubtedly instill belief among the players and fans that another upset is possible. Should they manage to overcome Getafe, Pontevedra will reach the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey for the first time since the 1966-67 season—a feat that would cement their place in Spanish football folklore.

On the other side, Getafe approaches this fixture with caution and determination, recognizing the threat posed by their lower-tier opponents. The Azulones, who are making back-to-back appearances in the last 16 of the Copa del Rey, have had a mixed journey in the competition thus far. They began their campaign with a comfortable 3-0 victory over sixth-tier side Manises before narrowly surviving a scare against Orihuela in the second round. In a tense encounter, Getafe needed penalties to overcome the sixth-tier club after a 2-2 draw in regulation time. Their most recent cup tie saw them edge past Granada in dramatic fashion, with Borja Mayoral scoring an extra-time winner to secure their progression.

Mayoral has been a key figure for Getafe, continuing his fine form with another goal in Sunday’s La Liga match against Las Palmas. His strike helped the Azulones claim a crucial 2-1 victory, marking their first away league win since April. This result lifted Getafe three points clear of the relegation zone, providing a much-needed confidence boost ahead of their trip to Pontevedra. Manager José Bordalás will be keen to build on this momentum, knowing that a victory on Wednesday would secure Getafe’s first quarter-final appearance in the Copa del Rey since the 2018-19 season.

While Getafe boasts a stronger pedigree and a higher league standing, their recent struggles in away matches make them vulnerable to an upset. The Azulones have had to grind out results in the Copa del Rey this season, and their narrow escapes against lower-tier opposition highlight their susceptibility to lapses in performance. However, Bordalás’s experience and tactical acumen will be critical in ensuring that his side remains focused and avoids underestimating their opponents.

Interestingly, this will not be the first time Pontevedra and Getafe have crossed paths in the Copa del Rey. The two sides previously met in the third round of the competition in November 2004, with Getafe emerging victorious in a closely contested match that required extra time. The Azulones secured a 2-1 win on that occasion, but Pontevedra’s impressive form this season suggests that history may not repeat itself so easily.

For Pontevedra, this game represents more than just an opportunity to advance to the quarter-finals—it is a chance to showcase their resilience, talent, and ambition on a national stage. The team’s journey thus far has been a testament to their ability to punch above their weight, and they will approach Wednesday’s fixture with the belief that anything is possible. Players like Dalisson, Yelko Pino, and Rufo Sánchez, who have already played pivotal roles in their cup run, will be eager to deliver once again, while the passionate home crowd will undoubtedly provide a raucous atmosphere to spur them on.

On the other hand, Getafe will be fully aware of the challenges that come with facing a team brimming with confidence and momentum. Bordalás will likely emphasize the importance of maintaining composure and discipline, as any complacency could prove costly against a side that has already demonstrated its ability to take down top-flight opposition. Players like Borja Mayoral will need to step up and lead by example, ensuring that Getafe’s quality and experience shine through in what promises to be a highly competitive encounter.

Ultimately, the stage is set for a fascinating contest between two teams with contrasting histories and aspirations. Pontevedra, the underdog with a fairy-tale cup run, will look to defy the odds once again and etch their name into the annals of Copa del Rey history. Meanwhile, Getafe, eager to avoid becoming the latest La Liga casualty, will aim to assert their superiority and advance to the quarter-finals. As the two sides prepare to face off at the Estadio Municipal de Pasarón, one thing is certain: this match has all the ingredients for a memorable and captivating spectacle.