Dominant Display at Mestalla
Valencia secured a commanding 6-0 victory over sixth-tier side Tavernes in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. The comprehensive win, featuring two goals from Aimar Blázquez and two assists from Rioja, ensures Valencia’s progression to the second round of the competition.
The match was played at Valencia’s home ground, Mestalla, an unusual arrangement where Valencia were officially designated as the away side. This was due to Tavernes’ municipal ground not meeting the required standards for the tie, with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) granting their request to use Mestalla.
Valencia wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Raba opening the scoring in the very first minute, assisted by Blázquez. Raba then turned provider, setting up Duro for the second goal in the 11th minute. Rioja added a third in the 19th minute following a pass from Martinez, before Elliott extended the lead to 4-0 in the 23rd minute. Tavernes goalkeeper Mainar made a notable save from a Blázquez header early in the second half, but Blázquez went on to score twice, finding the net in the 57th and 69th minutes to complete Valencia’s six-goal haul. Tavernes came close to a consolation goal when Erik struck the post from a short corner.
Advancing in the Cup
The victory sees Valencia comfortably through to the next stage of the Copa del Rey. Manager Javier Aguirre welcomed the return of long-term injured players and expressed positive conclusions from the match, while also emphasising the need for league wins. This cup success follows a mixed run of league form for Valencia, which included a 0-3 defeat to Real Madrid, a 1-0 win over Elche, and a 1-2 loss to Villarreal.
Tavernes had earned their place in the first round after navigating a two-legged preliminary round against UD Maracena, which ended in a 1-1 draw and a 0-0 stalemate.
What’s Next for Valencia
Valencia will now turn their attention back to league action, with an away fixture against Rayo Vallecano at the Estadio de Vallecas scheduled for Saturday, November 21. The Copa del Rey calendar continues with the round of 32 on December 16, followed by the last 16 on January 6, and the quarter-finals on January 13. The semi-finals, the only two-legged round, are set for February 10 and March 3, leading up to the final on April 24, 2027.