Canós Awakens Eldense from Their Cup Dream (0-2)

Valencia has ended Eldense's cup dream with a (0-2) victory that lacked brilliance but was fair and clear at Nuevo Pepico Amat. Two strikes from winger Sergi Canós left the Alicante team out of the knockout tournament, although Dani Ponz's side deserved to score at least one goal in the first half, when they persistently attacked down the right flank and exploited Jesús Vázquez's inexperience.

However, Valencia's striking power prevailed thanks to the partnership of Diego López and Sergi Canós, who were pivotal in both goals. In the 19th minute, López advanced down the right and delivered a ball back, which Canós expertly controlled and struck with his left foot into the top corner (0-1). Eldense did not falter and created chances but failed to find the net. Just as Valencia was struggling and the first half was nearing its end, a precise cross from Canós on the left was finished by Diego López in the small area with his right foot to widen the gap (0-2).

After the break, the match faded amidst the local team's frustration and Valencia's controlled play, which felt very comfortable and could have achieved a rout if the referee had not disallowed a goal by Hugo Almeida for a debatable offside by debutant Sadiq.

On another note, Eldense forward Alan Godoy did not even make the bench, indicating his departure is imminent. Hércules is closely monitoring the situation, as both technical director Paco Peña and coach Rubén Torrecilla agree that Godoy would be a quality addition in this winter market. The good relationship between Enrique Ortiz and Pascual Pérez, the top officials of Hércules and Eldense respectively, had fostered optimism, but the loan of the Canary Islands forward to the white-and-blue club now seems particularly complicated due to interest from Real Madrid Castilla, among other teams.

Godoy, 21, would fill one of Hércules' available under-23 slots, and if the deal goes through, Marcos Mendes would pack his bags as he would become the fourth-choice striker behind Dani Romera, Agustín Coscia, and the January arrival. Many Segunda RFEF teams have shown interest in the Guinea-Bissau striker, who has achieved two consecutive promotions to Primera RFEF, averaging 13 goals per season. This season, Mendes has had few opportunities and has yet to score. The club is certain he will leave in January, and it remains to be seen who will take his place if Godoy moves to the Madrid reserve team. In addition to a forward, Hércules is also seeking a left-back, a centre-back, and a defensive midfielder in the market.