Chapter 123: Carving a Bloody Path
Mallorca did not disappoint their supporters. In the following minutes, they pushed forward aggressively without hesitation.
Their attack was direct and fast-paced, constantly testing Valencia's highly regarded defense. Meanwhile, Valencia wasn't sitting back either. Every time Mallorca launched an attack, Valencia responded with one of their own, using counterattacks to relieve the pressure on their defense.
"I just realized that both teams' attacking setups are quite similar," Hidalgo commented. "Each side has a deep-lying playmaker and an advanced playmaker leading the attack—Mallorca has Thiago Motta and Ronaldinho, while Valencia relies on Gaizka Mendieta and Pablo Aimar. Up front, Mallorca's main attacking threat is Samuel Eto'o, while Valencia's focal point is John Carew. Their second strikers—whether it's Mista or Angulo—are more about movement and link-up play. Both teams also have a pacy winger, with the emphasis on Mallorca's right flank."
"Clearly, both managers have realized they can't completely neutralize each other tactically, so they've opted for an end-to-end battle," Bones added. "For Héctor Cúper, this makes sense because Valencia is the stronger side. But for José... well, I have to admire his courage."
José wasn't just relying on blind bravery—he recognized Valencia's quality but also believed his squad was just as talented. The only thing they lacked was experience, and only high-intensity matches could accelerate their development.
Cúper's decision to play an open game suited José perfectly.
Valencia was a whetstone, and Mallorca's players could only become sharper by going up against them.
Valencia's defensive organization was top-tier. Even though Cúper encouraged his team to attack more in this match, their backline remained a cohesive unit, stronger than Mallorca's had been last season.
But it was precisely this high-level defense that could push Mallorca's attack to new heights.
Ronaldinho faced a more structured defensive setup. Eto'o had to deal with tighter marking. Motta had to navigate a tougher midfield battle. Defense had always been Valencia's calling card under Cúper—he had instilled a defensive identity in Mallorca before moving to Valencia and reinforcing their already solid backline.
Mallorca kept attacking like relentless waves crashing against a seawall. Even though each attempt seemed to break apart, they regrouped and surged forward again, undeterred by setbacks.