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RCD Espanyol advance in the Copa del Rey

Two goals from Kike García secure victory at the expense of Atlètic Lleida

RCD Espanyol began their Copa del Rey campaign with a 1-2 win against Atlétic Lleida, as two goals from Kike García sent Los Pericos into the next round.

Looking to carry over their LaLiga form into the cup competition, RCD Espanyol nevertheless underwent changes to the starting XI, as a completely revamped lineup was fielded for the game against the Segunda RFEF side.

They took to the pitch determined to quickly settle the tie. The start was perfect, and after just three minutes they were already ahead thanks to a penalty from Kike García.

However, the game took a twist after a mistake by Àngel Fortuño allowed Atlétic Lleida in, and they got an equaliser to bring the contest back level. The goalkeeper would make amends throughout the remainder of the game, with several interventions.

Espanyol struggled to create clear-cut scoring opportunities. On a bumpy playing surface, it was difficult to play the ball along the ground, and the unpredictable bounces made moves from open play tricky. Thus, they turned to set pieces, and the centre backs threatened on almost every opportunity.

Koleosho made a surging run before the end of the half, but his chance was thwarted by a defender for the home team.

Just like in the first half, Espanyol came out aggressively after the break. They didn't take long to regain the lead, thanks once again to Kike García, who capitalised on a sensational cross from El Hilali on the right wing.

The scoreline forced the home side to make changes, as they needed to take more risks, while Espanyol began to feel more comfortable. El Hilali, from the wing, was a constant threat, creating good chances for his teammates.

What seemed to be a clear penalty when Salinas was brought down in the box, was given as a free kick outside the area, as the chances mounted.

In the final minutes, Atlètic Lleida had more possession and searched for an equaliser, but the solid performance of the Espanyol defence prevailed, securing qualification for the next round of the Copa del Rey.

The game also saw the official first team debuts of several players: Ángel Fortuño, Javi Hernández, and Ferran Gómez.