Mallorca Edges Past Numancia in Thrilling Copa Del Rey Clash

A Night of Drama and Determination at Los Pajaritos

The Copa del Rey delivered another captivating chapter as Mallorca secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Numancia in a first-round showdown at Estadio Los Nuevos Pajaritos. Despite battling valiantly, Segunda División outfit Numancia ultimately bowed out to La Liga opposition in a match defined by late twists and emotional narratives.

Hosted in a vibrant Soria venue buzzing with anticipation, the encounter pitted historical giants against underdogs. Mallorca entered the contest under Jagoba Arrasate, who previously managed Numancia for three seasons, adding a poignant subplot to the fixture. The visitors quickly stamped their authority with clinical finishing, while Numancia fought with relentless spirit.

Key Moments: Goals, Penalties, and Late Drama

The match exploded into life within the opening 15 minutes. Mallorca struck first through Llabrés in the 8th minute, capitalizing on early pressure. Abdón Prats doubled their lead just before half-hour mark (26'), leaving Numancia with a mountain to climb. The hosts, however, refused to fold.

After the break, Numancia launched a spirited comeback. Jony ignited their hopes with a goal in the 53rd minute, followed by Danese’s strike in the 75th that ignited the home crowd. Mallorca responded decisively though, earning a contentious penalty in the 63rd minute after a Danesa challenge on Asano. Abdón Prats coolly converted from the spot (64'), restoring the two-goal cushion.

Numancia pressed desperately in the final moments, but Mallorca’s resilience prevailed. The visitors advanced to the next round, while Numania’s courageous effort earned them plaudits despite the defeat.

"¡FINAAAAAAAL DEL PARTIDOOOOOOOO! El Mallorca avanza hasta la siguiente ronda. Gran partido de un Numancia que no le perdió la cara al partido en ningún momento." - Live commentary, Marca

Historic Context and Emotional Resonance

The game carried added weight given the teams’ intertwined history. In 14 previous meetings, Mallorca held a slight edge (5 wins, 4 draws, 5 losses), including a dramatic 3-2 victory in their last encounter. Arrasate’s return to Soria added emotional layers, with Mallorca’s senior squad including the experienced Cuellar, 41, who started the Copa del Rey tie.

Numancia, a club once a staple in La Liga, now competes in Segunda but showcased the fighting spirit that defined their top-flight days. Their supporters’ passionate presence, noted by Marca as having "gran ambiente en Los Pajaritos," embodied the cup’s capacity to unite communities.

What’s Next?

For Mallorca, this victory provides momentum amid a challenging league campaign. They now advance to the Copa del Rey’s later stages, where they’ll face tougher tests. Numancia, despite the exit, can take pride in their performance—a display of grit that highlighted their enduring passion for the competition.

The Copa del Rey continues to serve as a stage where giants are challenged and underdogs dream, and tonight’s clash was a perfect testament to its magic.