Quesos El Hidalgo Manzanares FS triumphed on Friday, winning their sixth Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha trophy by overcoming Viña Albali Valdepeñas 3-2 at the Virgen de la Cabeza sports hall. The victory marked a significant achievement for the Manzanares team, enabling them to surpass the historic Gestesa Guadalajara in the competition's record.
The match atmosphere was electric, with both teams and their supporters treating the encounter as if it were a league final. The game began dramatically, with Mateus Torres putting Viña Albali Valdepeñas ahead just twenty seconds into play. Bule, the Manzanares goalkeeper, showcased his skills early on by deflecting a shot from José Mario in the fourth minute. Manzanares struggled to find their rhythm initially, with Eloy hitting the post in the sixth minute.
Local players Carrasco and Naranjo attempted to extend the lead for Valdepeñas, but were thwarted by the young goalkeeper Javi Bule. The turning point came midway through the first half when a foul by Joao Silveira on Unai led to an equaliser for Manzanares. Eloy assisted Leandrinho, who scored with a powerful shot into the top corner.
However, Valdepeñas regained the lead in the 17th minute when Mateus Torres set up Yáñez, who found the net to make it 2-1. Despite a strong defensive effort from Manzanares, including crucial saves from Bule, the first half ended with Valdepeñas ahead.
The second half saw Bule continue to excel, denying several attempts from Valdepeñas, including two shots that struck the woodwork from José Mario. Manzanares finally found their footing, with Javi Alonso coming close to scoring, only to be denied by a header from Valdeñas goalkeeper Pato.
In the 34th minute, Daniel equalised for Manzanares with a stunning shot that found the top corner. Before Valdepeñas could regroup, Manzanares took the lead when Ribeirao's powerful throw-in deflected off captain Álex Naranjo and into the net.
In the dying moments, Valdepeñas attempted to level the score with a player-coach strategy, but the match concluded 3-2 in favour of Manzanares. Daniel lifted the regional champions' trophy, bringing it back to Manzanares.
Both teams displayed remarkable skill throughout the match, with Javi Bule's eleven crucial saves earning him particular praise. While the trophy win was celebrated, both teams are now focused on the league competition, where they will meet again next Saturday at the ‘Manzanares Arena’ at 18:45.
The Manzanares fans, known for their passionate support, celebrated the comeback and the trophy win, chanting “champions, champions” in the rival’s arena. The event was also attended by the local council, including Mayor Julián Nieva and councillors Laura Carrillo and Pablo Camacho.
