A historic opportunity. Toril was clear in his previous appearance to the second semifinal of the Cup that Madrid is one game away, against Athletic, to fight to raise the first title of its history. With Barcelona eliminated in the round of 16 due to improper alignment, this time the white dream is ‘Real’. “Illusion is what we all have, not pressure,” explained an Athenea that points to the starting eleven of the Cordovan coach. “We are all available”, revealed under the knowing smile of his technician.
Toril can opt for a defense dand three central, Kathellen, Rocío and Ivana, with the Cantabrian and Svava, or Olga, in the lanes. However, the option of four with Kenti on the side is also there. With an Esther little protagonist in this final stretch of the campaign, Linda Caicedo and Feller start with an advantage to take the lead. What is certain is that Weir will start, just like Misa under sticks after Gérard’s farewell to Real Sociedad.
Sun Quiñones, the second goalkeeper with the most interceptions in the F League, is also a fixture in goal, but from Athletic. The lionesses, with the losses of Garazi, Unzué and Bibi, will put their hopes of being in the third final of their history in their young promises Pinedo, Amezaga or Mariana. Illusion is not lacking in any team. They all want to be in the final. With the illusion of the first times.
POSSIBLE XI OF ATHLETIC AND REAL MADRID IN THE COPA DE LA REINA
Athletic: Quinones; Landaluze, Valdezate, Uriarte, Nevado; Mariana Cerro, Itxaso; Oihane H., Pinedo; threatens; and Arana.
real Madrid: Mass; Ivana, Kathellen, Rocio G.; Athenea, Toletti, Zornoza, Weir, Svava; Feller and Linda Caicedo.
Referee: Gil Soriano (Galicia).
Stadium: Butarque.
Hour: 21:00 (Rtve).