Nadal: the Balearic Islander captain who lifted the Cup
RCD Mallorca were crowned champions in 2003 after beating Recreativo de Huelva 3-0 in the final.
"A Copa del Rey final is one of the most beautiful matches you will ever get to play". This is how Miguel Ángel Nadal recalled that ever-famous clash in 2003, at the Martínez Valero in Elche, in which RCD Mallorca were crowned champions of the tournament for the first time in their rich history.
At the time, the Mallorcan centre-back was 36 years old and in the autumn years of a long career, 11 years of which were spent defending the colours of his home team. He describes making his dream come true that glorious day by "bringing a title at home".
Nadal recalls fondly that historic day when RCD Mallorca won, with a goal from Pandiani and two from Eto'o, 3-0 against Recreativo de Huelva, after leaving teams like Real Madrid CF and the 'golden era' of Deportivo La Coruña in their wake.
That night, Miguel Ángel Nadal became the only Mallorcan captain to lift the Copa del Rey, for now…