The Guaguas team, though facing a tough challenge at times, has successfully defended its title as champions of the Copa del Rey. The city of Zaragoza hosted the competition, which marked the return of a team capable of revalidating its championship after 12 years. Guaguas achieved this remarkable feat not only in 2024 but also in 2025, emulating the success of Pamesa Teruel, who were the last team to do so in 2011, 2012, and 2013. The final was a hard-fought battle where Guaguas had to dig deep, especially from the third set, to secure the victory.
A Solid Guaguas Performance Led by Walla Souza
Finals are won with composure, and Guaguas displayed an air of calmness throughout the match. Although the game began evenly, it was Manacor that seemed to come out with more intensity. Despite early successes from Leandro Calvo and Alejandro Ribas, it seemed that Manacor might struggle to maintain that momentum. At 8-5 up, the Balearic team could not hold on to their lead, and Guaguas began to take control. Tomas Rousseaux, Walla Souza, and MartÃn Ramos stepped up, capitalizing on the opportunities and turning the tide in their favor. The set concluded with an impeccable performance from MartÃn Ramos, giving Guaguas the upper hand.
Manacor’s response came in the form of increased confidence, but it was not enough. Despite efforts from Calvo, Gustavo RomanÃ, and Adrian Godbold, Walla Souza’s powerful attacks thwarted any hopes of a Balearic comeback. Even though Hugo March seemed to quickly adjust to the game’s rhythm, it wasn’t sufficient to change the course of the match.
The Adrian Vanco Effect Almost Turns the Tide
The momentum shifted in the third set with the introduction of Slovak opposite Adrian Vanco. Though he had few opportunities in the first set, Vanco became a key player in the third. His contributions, particularly towards the end of the set, helped Manacor remain in contention. However, as the match went on, doubts began to creep in among Manacor’s ranks, and despite the resilience of their players like RomanÃ, Godbold, and Calvo, Guaguas remained firmly in control.
Guaguas’ composure under pressure was evident, particularly with the brilliance of Walla Souza. The Brazilian player showcased his experience, delivering crucial points when his team needed them most. Manacor attempted to mirror their earlier performance, but Souza’s offensive prowess ensured that Guaguas remained dominant, especially in the most closely contested moments of the game.
Guaguas Clinches the Victory in Style
As the match drew to a close, it was clear that Guaguas had the advantage, with Souza leading the charge. Despite strong performances from Vanco and March, Guaguas ultimately secured the win with a combination of solid blocking from Jean Pascal and Tomas Rousseaux. The victory was a testament to their resilience and quality, reaffirming their place at the top of Spanish volleyball. Guaguas became champions once again, defending their title with pride.
Cristina GarcÃa Torres, the General Director of Sports for the Government of Aragon, presented the MVP trophy to Guaguas’ standout player, Walla Souza, who had been instrumental in his team’s victory.
A Historic Achievement for Guaguas
Following the victory, coach Sergio Miguel Camarero was seen celebrating with his team on the court. This was Guaguas’ third Copa del Rey title in the last five years (2021, 2024, and 2025), and the club now boasts an impressive total of 10 titles since its formation in 2020. Walla Souza’s MVP award and the team’s remarkable performance highlight the ongoing success of Guaguas’ project, which is clearly here to stay.
Match Details:
Manacor Connectabalear
Ribas (7), Romanà (11), Lorente (1), Godbold (14), Calvo (12), Cairus (6), March (L)
Also played: Vanco (15), Fagquer (L), Alomar (0)
Coach: Alexis González
CV Guaguas
Bruno (9), Walla Souza (28), De Amo (1), Pascal (11), Rousseaux (7), Ramos (12), Larrañaga (L)
Also played: Trinidad (0), Almansa (0), Pérez (L)
Coach: Sergio Miguel Camarero
Set Scores:
15-25, 18-25, 25-23, 23-25
Match Information:
Final of the 2025 Copa del Rey, held at the 21st Century CDM in Zaragoza, with 2,500 spectators in attendance.