Tresaco Strikes Early as Cultural Leonesa Stun Levante

LEÓN, SPAIN — Under the lights at Estadio Reino de León, Cultural Leonesa produced a memorable Copa del Rey upset, defeating second-tier Levante 1-0 in a pulsating encounter that saw the hosts create chances throughout. The teams shared possession almost equally at 47.9%-52.1%, but it was Cultural Leonesa's clinical edge in front of goal that made the difference on a night when their attacking intent overwhelmed the visitors.

The decisive moment arrived in the 12th minute when Rafa Tresaco pounced with predatory instinct. The forward found himself perfectly positioned on the right side of the six-yard box and drilled a right-footed shot into the bottom right corner, sending the home faithful into raptures. It was a finish that showcased composure and precision, setting the tone for what would become a relentless attacking display from the hosts.

Cultural Leonesa refused to sit on their early advantage, bombarding Levante's goal with wave after wave of attacks. Iván Calero proved a constant menace down the right flank, testing Pablo Campos with a header in the 73rd minute that required a sharp save. Diego Collado and Yayo González orchestrated play through midfield, while Paco Cortés pulled the strings from deeper positions. The hosts' attacking ambition was reflected in their remarkable shot tally of 17 attempts, with 9 forcing Campos into action.

Levante's goalkeeper was called into action 8 times throughout the match, producing a heroic performance that kept his side within touching distance. In the dying moments, Campos denied Daniel Paraschiv from close range in the 84th minute, while Iván Romero struck the crossbar in the 87th minute as Levante desperately sought an equalizer. The visitors managed just 3 shots on target from their 8 total attempts, struggling to break down a resolute Cultural Leonesa defense marshaled by Sergi Maestre and Matia Barzic.

The turning point came in the final 15 minutes when Levante threw everything forward in search of salvation. Manager substitutions brought fresh legs with Carlos Espí and Iván Romero entering the fray, but Cultural Leonesa's defensive discipline held firm. Miguel Bañuz produced a crucial save in the 90th minute, tipping Romero's header around the post to preserve the clean sheet. The nervy seven minutes of added time tested every nerve inside the stadium, but the hosts stood strong.

Looking ahead, Cultural Leonesa will travel to face Las Palmas on December 20, while Levante host Real Sociedad on December 20.