Valencia thrashes Tavernes and qualifies for the second round of the Cup

Valencia certified their place in the second round of the Copa del Rey with a resounding 6-0 win over UE Tavernes. The La Safor team, which played as a home team in Mestalla as its stadium did not meet the necessary requirements to host the match, experienced a historic day despite the defeat, boosted by goals from Dani Raba, Hugo Duro, Luis Rioja, Harvey Elliott and Aimar Blázquez's double.

Since early in the afternoon, around 40 buses from Tavernes arrived at Mestalla to accompany the team in the most important match in its history. However, it took Valencia just 34 seconds to open the scoring. Sato assisted Aimar Blázquez with quality, who started into space and served the ball for Dani Raba to beat Mainar with a first-time shot.

The six categories of difference between both teams were soon reflected on the grass. Hugo Duro extended the lead in the 10th minute after an assist from Raba and, shortly after, Luis Rioja scored the third taking advantage of an extension by Arnau after a corner. Harvey Elliott raised the lead to 0-4 before the break with a direct free kick.

Despite the score, the Vallera fans maintained the festive atmosphere in the stands. Mainar avoided an even bigger defeat with several worthy interventions, although he could not prevent Aimar Blázquez from finding reward for his insistence with two goals in the second half, both after assists from Luis Rioja. Tavernes also came close to scoring the honor, but Erik's shot hit the post, depriving the team of celebrating a goal on an unforgettable night at Mestalla.

The other top team that was playing today in the Cup, Alavés, easily certified their qualification to the next round with a resounding 1-6 against Anaitasuna, who could do little throughout the match.