UE Tavernes 0-0 Maracena (Maracena win 4-2 on penalties): Copa del Rey First Round Goes to the Wire

UE Tavernes and Maracena played out a tense 0-0 draw in their Copa del Rey first-round tie on October 5, 2026, with Maracena eventually advancing 4-2 on penalties at the Estadio Municipal de Tavernes. The match, played in front of a passionate home crowd, was a tactical battle that remained deadlocked through 120 minutes.

Match Overview

Both sides struggled to create clear chances in a cagey first half, with defenses on top. Tavernes, playing in front of their home fans, had the better of the early possession but could not find a way past Maracena's organized backline. The second half followed a similar pattern, with half-chances at both ends. The best opportunity fell to Tavernes' striker Raúl Pérez in the 78th minute, but his header was brilliantly saved by the Maracena goalkeeper. Neither team could break the deadlock in extra time, sending the tie to a penalty shootout. Maracena held their nerve, converting all four of their spot-kicks, while Tavernes missed two.

Key Moments

• 78' – Raúl Pérez's header forces a superb save from the Maracena goalkeeper.
• 105+1' – Maracena's best chance falls to substitute Juanma, who shoots wide.
• Penalty Shootout – Maracena score all four penalties; Tavernes miss their second and fourth attempts.

Tactical Story

Tavernes lined up in a 4-2-3-1, looking to use the width of their wingers to stretch Maracena. However, Maracena's 4-4-2 defensive block proved difficult to penetrate, with the midfield duo sitting deep and cutting off passing lanes. As the game progressed, both teams seemed content to avoid defeat, leading to a cautious affair. The penalty shootout was a cruel way to decide a match that had few clear-cut chances.

Standout Players

Javier Ortega (Maracena) – The goalkeeper was the hero, making a crucial save in normal time and then stopping two penalties in the shootout. His performance was the difference.

Raúl Pérez (UE Tavernes) – The striker was the home side's most threatening player, and his header almost won the tie.

David López (Maracena) – The captain was a rock at the back, winning everything in the air and marshaling his defense throughout.

Table and Season Impact

While the Copa del Rey provides a welcome distraction, both teams must now refocus on their league campaigns. For Maracena, the prize is a potential glamour tie in the next round against a La Liga side, a huge financial boost for the club. For UE Tavernes, the exit is disappointing, but they can take pride in a resilient performance. The result highlights the magic of the Copa del Rey, where lower-league sides often push their opponents to the limit.