Getafe has advanced to the round of 16 of the Copa del Rey after clinching a narrow 1-0 victory against Granada at Estadio Nuevo Los Cármenes. The decisive moment came late in the extra time, with Borja Mayoral scoring the only goal of the match, showcasing his returning prowess after months out due to injury.
The match began with both teams struggling to find their rhythm, leading to a first half marked by minimal scoring chances and largely absent attacking threats. The opening 45 minutes were characterized by solid defenses, with neither side able to significantly test the goalkeepers. Only one moment troubled Diego Mariño of Granada, when Mauro Arambarri's weak header came his way.
Both teams had their fair share of frustration as two goals scored by Israel's Shon Weissman were controversially disallowed for offside, first during the first half and again shortly after halftime. The disallowed goals emphasized the intense pressure Getafe was under, juxtaposed with Granada’s persistence as they sought to break the deadlock.
Throughout the match, the Granada players appeared more aggressive, especially during the second half, which saw them dial up the pressure considerably against their Madrid-based opponents. The Brazilian forward Reinier Jesús had opportunities, including one near the hour mark where his header was magnificently saved by Getafe's goalkeeper Jirí Letácek. It was evident as the game advanced, Granada was seeking to assert dominance and capitalize on their chances.
By the 80th minute, coach José Bordalás, recognizing the need for change, introduced Borja Mayoral back onto the field following his long injury layoff. The decision proved pivotal as the match wore on, with Getafe showing signs of improvement as they chased the elusive opening goal.
Speaking of missed opportunities, Getafe almost took the lead late in regulation time when Juan Iglesias hit the crossbar following Chrisantus Uche’s assist. The two sides ended the regular 90 minutes without breaking through, necessitating extra time. Granada continued executing their pressure tactics, even missing what seemed like sure chances as play resumed after regulation.
The fiery tension culminated as the clock ticked down on the first half of extra time, with Reinier again unable to convert after being presented with a golden opportunity early on. This apparent failure would come back to haunt them moments later.
Finally, at the 93rd minute, Getafe launched one more foray forward, which resulted from the clever play from acquire Bertug Yaldirim, who held onto the ball amid defensive backs and set up Mayoral. The forward then rifled home from close range, clinching the win for Getafe.
Despite the thrill of scoring the lone goal, Getafe's efficacy was matched by their defensive discipline, allowing Letácek to maintain the clean sheet amid frantic attempts from Granada to find the equalizer. Although Granada tested them time and again, including another superb save from Letácek against Reinier again late on, it was evident they would not find the back of the net as the match concluded.
This victory marks another significant moment for Getafe under Bordalás’s leadership, reflecting resilience and tactical flexibility throughout the match. Despite Granada's pressing game and missed opportunities, Getafe’s ability to seize the moment when it mattered has propelled them forward to the fifth round of the Copa del Rey.
Looking Ahead: Granada must regroup after this disappointment, refocusing their efforts as they prepare for upcoming matches. Meanwhile, Getafe will savor this moment, but they know stiffer challenges await as the competition progresses.