The contrast between the two sides could hardly be greater. Tavernes are enjoying the biggest night in their history after reaching the competition proper for the first time, while Valencia arrive under pressure to lift the mood following a difficult start to the season. Los Che find themselves deep in the La Liga relegation battle after collecting just nine points from 12 matches, with their recent 3-0 defeat to Real Madrid extending a worrying run of results.

For Valencia, the Copa del Rey offers a chance to turn the page and gain some much-needed momentum. Their struggles in front of goal have been a major concern, having scored only eight league goals this season, but facing lower-league opposition presents an opportunity to rediscover confidence in attack. Having reached the quarter-finals last season, an early exit is something Javier Aguirre will be keen to avoid.

Tavernes’ cup run has already secured a place in club folklore. Success in La Nostra Copa and a penalty shootout victory over UD Maracena earned them a date with one of Spanish football’s traditional heavyweights. However, their league campaign has been less memorable, with the side currently battling near the bottom of the Lliga Comunitat Sud standings.

Despite Valencia’s domestic difficulties, the gulf in quality, depth and experience remains significant. Tavernes are expected to embrace the occasion and make life as difficult as possible for their illustrious visitors, but overcoming an eight-time Copa del Rey winner would rank among the competition’s biggest shocks. Valencia are strongly fancied to progress to the next round.