The semifinals of the Copa del Rey and Copa de la Reina field hockey left a seismic shock on the turf this Saturday. The reigning champions, both in the men's and women's categories, were emphatically eliminated. Club de Campo, the men's title defenders, could not hold onto their initial lead and fell to Atlètic Terrassa 2-1. On Sunday, therefore, new winners will be crowned.
Tactical analysis: high press disarms the favorite 🏑
Atlètic Terrassa applied a high press that neutralized Club de Campo's build-up play, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. After the reigning champion's early goal, the visiting team adjusted their defensive line and exploited the spaces behind the center-backs. The mobility of their forwards, combined with quick transitions, created the two chances that turned the score around. An organized defensive block in the final minutes sealed the victory.
The champion left with a bitter taste 😅
Club de Campo took the lead, fell asleep, and found the surprise that the rival hadn't read the expected script. Because yes, in hockey, there's also that thing of shooting yourself in the foot with your boot on. The team from Terrassa, without any complexes, reminded everyone that titles aren't kept in a virtual trophy case. Now it remains to be seen if there will be another victim on Sunday or if logic, for once, decides to show up.