The Sub-13 grand final of the International Carnaval Cup lived up to its name. It was a truly crazy match, full of intensity, balance and nerves until the very last second. The clash between Zaragoza and the side coached by Edgar Agudo (Betis) ended 1-1 after the 40 minutes of regulation time and was decided in a dramatic penalty shootout that went Zaragoza’s way, 3-2.

Zaragoza snatched the title that Valencia had been defending since last year, after a heart-stopping final against the Andalusian side. The first half, lasting 20 minutes, was a real tactical battle. Both teams showed great respect for each other, with chances at both ends and no clear dominant side. The defenses prevailed over the attacks in a very balanced stretch where competitive rhythm and concentration set the tone of the game.

At the start of the second half, Ian Blánquez had one of the first big chances in the 23rd minute, hinting that the match was about to open up. From that moment on, the game gradually became more stretched, with more space and constant arrivals in both penalty areas.

Zaragoza struck first in the 25th minute, when Axel Valdemoros made it 1-0 for Samuel Secanella’s team. The coach switched to a 3-4-3 with wing-backs in the second half, a brave decision that gave his side more width and attacking presence at key moments.

Betis’ response

Betis, far from collapsing, reacted with character. Dincoll, the tournament’s top scorer with 6 goals, kept trying relentlessly, creating danger with every involvement and forcing the opposing defense to stay on high alert. Ignacio Barquero also had a clear chance in the 27th minute that kept the tension alive.

In a thrilling and extremely even ending, Iván Calderón, the Verdiblanco number 9, appeared in the 34th minute to equalise (1-1), igniting the excitement in the final minutes. In addition, Mario Ágreda’s intervention was crucial in stopping several dangerous Betis runs during the decisive phase.

Zaragoza’s path to the final had already been demanding, finishing fifth in the league phase and eliminating Girona in the semi-finals, also on penalties. That experience from the spot ultimately proved decisive in the outcome of the tournament.

In the final shootout, Zaragoza scored three penalties, while Betis converted two. The decisive kick was taken by Ian, sealing the title for the Aragonese side.

Zaragoza coach’s reaction

After the match, Samuel Secanella reflected on the victory: “It was a very demanding final. There were teams of a very high level throughout the tournament. The Carnaval Cup has some of the best academies in the world and we are leaving very happy,” he said, adding: “It was tough, Betis’ number 7 and number 4 were two outstanding players, but I am very happy with our team.”