España Libre Cup: The Great Final

Colina, the Valencia coach, was convinced that in the decisive match they would turn around their disastrous run against Levante. Besides, Sarriá was always good for them. The player Goiburu was even more daring and assured that Valencia would win 4-1. But none of that scared Gallart, the Levante coach, who was the most accurate with his prediction: "We are going to give 'pal' pelo to Valencia".

Mundo Deportivo legitimised the Trophy: "It is the FINAL OF THE 1937 CUP. And its significance lies in the fact that in loyal Spain football competitions have not been interrupted. After the super-regionals, there was the League. Now, also, there is the Cup final which, as in previous years of the Trophy's glorious history, is donated by the Head of State". And he attached the list with all the champions.

Another curiosity of this Cup was the shirts worn in the final. While it is true that Levante's blue and white jersey had had a historic run, the red one worn by Valencia was surprising even for the most loyal of 'ché' fans. And there was a reason: Valencia used it as a talisman, as they had worn it in their last victory against Levante in the 1936 Regional. But to no avail.

This photo is one of the few from that final that, according to the chronicles, had no colour. Levante deserved to win more comfortably. At least Nieto's beautiful goal in the 78th minute, after a superb volley, made up for the low scoreline. Levante's Olivares was the best player and the game was played as finals are played, with nerve and toughness. The only downside was the coldness of the Catalan crowd in the absence of local representation.

And this was that mythical eleven that on 18 July 1937, at the Sarriá stadium in Barcelona, won the great Levantine title: the Copa España Libre. Standing and from left to right: Puig II (striker), Calero (midfielder), Olivares (defender), Gaspar Rubio (striker), Fraisón (striker), Calpe (defender), Valero (goalkeeper) and Rubio (midfielder). Squatting: Dolz (midfield), Nieto (striker) and Martínez Catalá (striker).