The Copa del Rey continues its knockout phase with the arrival of five First Division teams that face clubs from lower categories. Alavés, Levante, Betis, Celta and Valencia come into action this Wednesday, when 24 matches are played in single matches, with the top-flight teams playing at the home of their rivals.
Betis heads to Navalcarnero, Celta to Salamanca CF UDS and Valencia to Tavernes de la Valldigna, all in the Second Federation. The afternoon matches, at 9:00 p.m., put the First Division visitors under the obligation to demonstrate their superiority in a foreign field, where the margin for error is minimal. Tavernes, who will make their debut in the competition, face a rival from the League in a game that promises to be decisive for both teams.
At 7:00 p.m., Alavés visits Anaitasuna and Levante faces Tarancón, from the Third Federation. Alavés returns to the Cup after an absence dating back to the 1983-84 season, while Anaitasuna returns after participating in the 2020-21 edition. For both teams, advancing is a natural expectation, while their opponents see the possibility of an upset that could change the course of their season.
The day also offers attractive fixtures outside the First Division. Mallorca visits Alcoyano and Oviedo travels to Los Pajaritos to face Numancia, both at 8:00 p.m. In addition, Valladolid, Leganés, Tenerife and Albacete compete for classification in their respective matches. The teams of the Second and Third Federation, such as Eibar, Huesca and Ceuta, also participate in duels that can open up new opportunities for them in the competition.
The single-match format and the possibility of playing in the opponent's stadium make each match a test of endurance and strategy. The Primera teams seek to consolidate their position, while the lower category clubs try to take advantage of the opportunity for a memorable victory. The day concludes with the possibility that some lower category teams will advance, keeping alive the illusion of a night of glory in the Copa del Rey.