Girona advanced to the next phase of the Copa del Rey after beating Cuarte 2‑0 in a match that was decided in the first test of the tie. The goals, scored by AbelRuiz and the Ukrainian Pyshchur, secured the victory without the team needing to call on its usual starters.
Coach Quique Álvarez opted for a lineup full of rotations and youth players, leaving only Francés in the starting eleven. Despite the difference in categories, the Catalan team maintained control of the match for most of the match, although Cuarte, under the direction of Chus Herrero, showed personality and achieved several approaches to the rival area. However, the lack of precision in their attacks prevented them from converting those opportunities into goals.
The first goal came in the 23rd minute when Lass, with a precise cross from the left, handed the ball to AbelRuiz, who took the opportunity to put the Catalans ahead. This goal was especially significant for Ruiz, who had been looking to regain his rhythm and prominence after a season of internal competition. The second goal, in the 60th minute, was the work of Pyshchur, who after a corner shot by VandeBeek, positioned himself to push the ball into the net. This goal marked his first appearance as a scorer in the green-white jersey and became a key moment for his confidence.
El Cuarte showed their responsiveness, with players like Lucas Fernández, Rami and Marco Ramírez creating chances, but the Ukrainian goalkeeper, Krapyvtsov, made decisive reflexes to prevent the Aragonese team from finding the net. Referee Alejandro Morilla supervised the match without any relevant incidents occurring, and the VAR did not intervene.
With the victory, Girona advances without having to resort to its main figures, which reinforces the team's positive dynamic in the competition. The tie also offered valuable minutes to the youth players and consolidated the confidence of players like AbelRuiz and Pyshchur. In the next phase, Girona will continue seeking to maintain its performance and take advantage of the opportunities that arise in the Copa del Rey.