CD Tenerife Set to Make Copa del Rey Debut Against RSD Alcalá
This Tuesday, at 19:30 Canary time, CD Tenerife will embark on a new chapter in their storied history as they take on RSD Alcalá in the opening round of the Copa de SM El Rey for the 2025/26 season. This match not only marks the beginning of the tournament for Tenerife but also serves as a significant moment for both clubs as they compete in one of Spain’s most prestigious football competitions.
First-Time Encounter in the Copa del Rey
The upcoming match represents the first-ever meeting between CD Tenerife and RSD Alcalá in the Copa del Rey. While the two teams have crossed paths six times in the past during domestic league play, all those encounters took place in the third tier of Spanish football. Historically, Tenerife has enjoyed a favorable record against Alcalá, which adds an extra layer of anticipation to this inaugural cup clash.
A Legacy of Copa del Rey Participation
CD Tenerife is preparing for its 59th appearance in the Campeonato de España, having first entered the tournament on April 10, 1932. In that initial match, they faced Real Betis at the Mestalla stadium in Valencia, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Over the decades, the team has participated in a total of 258 matches within this tournament, achieving an impressive tally of 110 wins, 48 draws, and 100 losses. Among their notable achievements, Tenerife reached the semi-finals once during the 1993-1994 season, where they were ultimately eliminated by RC Celta. Additionally, they have made five quarter-final appearances and reached the round of 16 on 13 occasions, showcasing their competitive spirit and resilience in knockout football.
Historical Context of Previous Encounters with Alcalá
Throughout their history, CD Tenerife has visited Alcalá six times, with these matches occurring in consecutive seasons across three distinct periods: the 1968-69 and 1969-70 seasons, the 1980-81 and 1981-82 seasons, and finally in the 2011-12 and 2012-13 seasons. In these encounters, Tenerife has emerged victorious in three matches while suffering just one defeat, further solidifying their dominance in this historical rivalry.
Memorable Matches and Key Moments Against Alcalá
The first meeting between CD Tenerife and RSD Alcalá took place on November 3, 1968, during the eighth matchday of the 1968-69 Third Division. In a stunning display of skill and teamwork, Tenerife secured a remarkable 7-1 victory, with standout performances from players like Manolo Ramos, who netted three goals, and Barrios and Mendoza, who each contributed two goals. The return match on February 23, 1969, saw Tenerife continue their dominance, winning 3-0 with goals from Cabrera, Francisco Sánchez, and Morín. The following year, Tenerife maintained their winning streak in Alcalá, clinching a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from midfielder Antonio González.
The Sole Defeat in Alcalá
Despite their overall success, CD Tenerife did experience a setback during their third visit to Alcalá on October 12, 1980, in the 1980-1981 Segunda B season. After an equalizer from Salvador Mesa, the team ultimately fell short, losing 2-1. Their most recent visit to Alcalá resulted in a 1-1 draw, salvaged by a goal from Lolín, demonstrating that while Tenerife has had the upper hand historically, Alcalá can still pose a challenge.
Noteworthy Players and Coaches in the Rivalry
Several notable players have made their mark in matches against Alcalá. Aridane Santana made his debut for CD Tenerife on January 8, 2012, during a match at Municipal El Val, where he scored shortly after being substituted in. Ayoze Pérez also made his first-team debut at the same venue the following season, highlighting the significance of these encounters for emerging talent. Additionally, Pier Luigi Cherubino Loggi, who debuted with CD Tenerife in the top division during the 1990-1991 season, played his last match in Alcalá during the 2006-2007 season. Interestingly, the current coach of RSD Alcalá, Ángel Vivar Dorado, has his own ties to CD Tenerife, having played there for four seasons from 1994 to 1998, adding a personal dimension to this competitive matchup.
Key points
- CD Tenerife will face RSD Alcalá for the first time in the Copa del Rey.
- This match is scheduled for Tuesday at 19:30 Canary time.
- CD Tenerife has a favorable record against Alcalá in previous league encounters.
- The team has participated in the Copa del Rey 59 times since its inception.
- CD Tenerife has achieved 110 victories in 258 Copa del Rey matches.
- They reached the semi-finals once and the quarter-finals five times.
- Aridane Santana and Ayoze Pérez made their debuts in matches against Alcalá.
