SUMMARIES | Between Feats and Dreams Fulfilled

The grand finale of the first qualifying round could not have been any other way: on a grand scale — with 13 matches, 63 goals, and countless emotions spread across the entire country.

Levante UD and RC Celta de Vigo, both winning away from home, opened Wednesday’s celebrations by securing their places in the next round. They were soon joined by FC Andorra and Deportivo Alavés, the latter achieving a resounding victory over Getxo CD thanks to a hat-trick from Mariano.

The wins of RCD Espanyol and Málaga CF were much tighter, each prevailing by the narrowest of margins, while Real Ávila and Real Murcia advanced after thrilling extra-time drama and a nerve-racking penalty shootout, respectively.

But without question, the most special moments of the day took place in Andalusia — specifically in Lebrija and Palma del Río. There, in Seville, the fans of Club Atlético Antoniano witnessed a historic victory against CD Castellón, a team that competes two divisions above them. Meanwhile, supporters of Atlético Palma del Río were treated to the visit of Real Betis Balompié — the former club of their current icon, Sergio León. The striker, with a proud Betis past, was honored before kickoff by both sets of fans, who packed a stadium that now bears his name.

Three days, 56 matches, and 210 goals later, the MAPFRE Copa del Rey concludes its most inclusive and passionate round in truly spectacular fashion.