Las Palmas bow out of the Spanish Cup against Badajoz (2-1)

The second round of the cup was a demanding match for Las Palmas and they were swept aside. CD Badajoz, who lie fourth in Group 4 of Segunda División B, came out looking to surprise their opponents and this they did. Las Palmas starting line-up was packed with reserves and with winter signing Fede Varela as the main attraction. The Canary side took the game to their opponents in the early stages, moving the ball around but not taking any risks. Badajoz held off and were ordered in defence, looking to catch their opponents on the break with the pace of ex-Las Palmas player Guzmán and Adilson.

The first clear chance fell to Las Palmas with a shot from the right by which flew just past the left hand post of home goalkeeper Garrancho. In the home side’s first real chance they found the back of the net, with a fine goal by Álex Corredera from a corner (min. 25). His well struck shot with his left foot sped past the outstretched hand of Josep Martínez. Just a minute later, Chris Ramos made the score 2-0 to Badajoz with a fine solo effort. The young winger showed a lot of fine touches, but was forced off before half-time through injury. 

The second half saw Pepe Mel reshuffle his pack. He brought on Benito Ramírez in place of Jesús Fortes, Srnic moved out to the right and the away side began to apply pressure on  Badajoz. Las Palmas soon got back into the match when Kirian pulled a goal back in the 50th minute. Just a minute later Fede Varela nearly forced an equaliser but his effort was blocked by the home goalkeeper. Garrancho then saved his side as he kept out a shot by  Varela (min. 57). Badajoz then broke away from the insistant wave of attacks by Las Palmas when Traoré hit the post from a corner kick (min. 72). 

Las Palmas laid siege on Badajoz’s goal in the final minutes. Mel brought on De la Bella and Pedri to strengthen the wings and the away side strived to get an equaliser and take the game into extra time. The home side were running out of steam and were hanging on thanks to their two first half goals. In time added on, Josep Martínez was sent off after fouling an opponent in the box. With their substitutions already made, defender Deivid took over in goal and saved the penalty. The final whistle went with a 2-1 scoreline which means that Badajoz go into the hat for the next round.