19-year-old defender plays goalie, helps defeat Girona in Copa del Rey

2024-25 Copa del Rey: La Liga Clubs Knocked Out

The second round of the 2024-25 Copa del Rey is in full swing, with surprises and upsets already taking place. This midweek saw three La Liga clubs eliminated from the competition in a dramatic fashion. Espanyol was the first to be knocked out, followed by Villarreal and Girona in the subsequent days.

Girona’s Remarkable Exit from Copa del Rey

The story of Girona’s exit from the Copa del Rey is nothing short of remarkable. During their match against Logrones, just before half-time in extra time, Logrones’ goalkeeper Enrique Royo was forced off the field due to a suspected concussion. In a surprising turn of events, 19-year-old defender Pol Arnau stepped up to take his place in goal.

Despite being an outfield player, Arnau managed to keep a clean sheet for the rest of extra time. His heroic performance continued into the penalty shootout, where he made a crucial save against Abel Ruiz, helping Logrones secure a 4-3 victory over Girona.

Pol Arnau: Following in His Father’s Footsteps

For Pol Arnau, the match must have been an emotional rollercoaster. His late father, Francesc, who passed away three years ago, was a former goalkeeper for top clubs like Barcelona and Malaga. Arnau’s performance in the Copa del Rey was reminiscent of his father’s legacy, proving that talent runs in the family.

Overall, the second round of the Copa del Rey has already provided plenty of drama and excitement, showcasing the unpredictable nature of cup competitions in Spanish football.