Pons Lleida Ends Europe Cup Season with Defeat Against Liceo

The Lleida team falls in the second playoff match against Liceo, with captain Sergi Duch scoring in his farewell game.

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IA

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Pons Lleida concluded its Europa Cup season yesterday, falling to Liceo 2-4 in the second playoff match, a game marked by the farewell of captain Sergi Duch.

The Lleida team bid farewell to the competition after also losing the first match in Riazor (3-2). Despite the final defeat, the team showed character and fought to stay in the game, although Liceo generated more chances and ultimately prevailed. The season marks the club's fourth participation in the Europa Cup.
The match began with tension, featuring chances for both sides from the early minutes. Liceo took the lead in the 18th minute with a goal from their captain, Dava Torres, a former Pons Lleida player. The heat and strict refereeing marked the first half, which ended 0-1. Pons Lleida had to defend with one player down for a few minutes after a blue card for Gabarró.
In the second half, Liceo extended their lead with goals from Carballeira (0-2) and Cervera (1-3). Pons Lleida reacted quickly with a goal from Moncusí (1-2), but the Galician team scored again. In his farewell, captain Sergi Duch netted the 2-3, giving his team hope, but Liceo sealed the victory with a final 2-4 scoreline five minutes from time.
Despite the loss, Sergi Duch expressed mixed feelings: "I am sad to leave what has been my home my whole life, but at the same time I am happy because it is what I need. I regret nothing I have done and would do it again." Coach David Carrasco highlighted the team's competitive spirit: "We never stop competing in matches, but we lack that extra point to win." He added that they will face changes with optimism for the next season.