SD Huesca's Tactical Missteps Lead to Copa del Rey Exit

On December 2, 2025, SD Huesca's journey in the Copa del Rey came to an abrupt end at the hands of Racing de Ferrol. The match, played at Racing de Ferrol's home ground, was a tactical battle that ultimately saw Huesca falter in their strategic implementation. Despite a previous commanding 3-0 victory against Utebo, Huesca could not replicate their form, with their offensive strategies stifled by a well-organized Racing de Ferrol side.

In dissecting Huesca's tactical setup, the absence of key players like Javi Mier and Jordi Martin due to injuries appeared to significantly impact their squad depth and overall performance. Manager Ziganda's decision to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation, aimed at providing defensive solidity while maintaining a creative edge up front, did not yield the desired results. The midfield double pivot, designed to shield the backline and facilitate quick transitions, struggled to cope with Racing de Ferrol's high pressing strategy. This pressure forced Huesca into errors, resulting in a restricted possession of just 31% and a meager single shot on target throughout the encounter.

Racing de Ferrol, on the other hand, capitalized on Huesca's tactical vulnerabilities. Utilizing a flexible 4-4-2 formation, they were able to maintain compactness and exploit spaces in Huesca's defensive third. The strategic positioning of their wingers, who frequently cut inside to create overloads in central areas, posed persistent threats to Huesca's defensive setup. This adaptability in attack, combined with a disciplined defensive structure, ultimately saw them progress to the next round.

The elimination from the Copa del Rey forces Huesca to shift their focus entirely onto La Liga 2, where their recent form has been inconsistent. A 0-0 draw against Almería highlighted their struggles in breaking down well-organized defenses, while a recent 3-1 home victory against Racing Santander showcased their potential when their tactical plans are executed effectively. Going forward, Huesca will need to address their tactical rigidity and find ways to adapt their game plan to suit the opposition.

In conclusion, the match against Racing de Ferrol was a stark reminder of the importance of tactical flexibility and depth in a competitive cup competition. As Huesca regroups for their La Liga 2 campaign, the lessons learned from this Copa del Rey exit could prove invaluable in their quest for consistency and success.