Hortaleza vs Güímar - Copa del Rey

The Copa del Rey returns to the home ground on September 27, 2026, where Hortaleza and Güímar will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Josh Allen had an impressive first game at the Buffalo Bills’ new stadium in their second NFL fixture of the season.

There is little to choose between Hortaleza and Güímar on paper, and the Copa del Rey encounter should reflect that balance. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. Güímar's away form is hard to read, but they will arrive with the belief that they can trouble their hosts. The on-loan Southampton striker had scored on his debut for Auxerre in defeat last weekend but followed it up with the winning goal against Nice to earn his old boss Will Still his first points in the job.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Hortaleza will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Güímar will back themselves to cause problems on the break. After the loss, a lot of questions began to be raised about their different approach to preparing for the game.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Ajax's struggles have become a soap opera but new boss Michel has delivered seven wins and two draws across all competitions to ensure they at least have a Conference League campaign to look forward to.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Copa del Rey picture. The club are understood to favour a profile closer to Aurelien Tchouameni or a Premier League‑proven alternative rather than Manu Kone.