Giant-killers to face Deportivo

The draw for the semi-finals of the Spanish Cup has been made, pairing outsiders UE Figueres with UEFA Champions League contenders RC Deportivo La Coruña.

Giantkillers on a roll
Figueres are the first club from the third tier of the Spanish league to reach the last four of the competition. In the second round they beat FC Barcelona and they sealed their place in the semi-finals with a victory against Córdoba CF. Figueres spokesman Manuel Aranz said of the draw: "We are a modest side and this is the first time a Segunda Division B team has reached the semi-finals. We have battled on up to now, the fans are completely behind us and we'll give it everything."

'We'll give it everything'
Deportivo director Manuel Montiel admitted he harbours secret fears that his club will become the latest victims of the giant-killers. "We wanted Figueres in theory, but in the game we'll see if our wishes correspond to reality," he said. "However, to tell the truth, we do see the final a little bit closer now."

Firm favourites
The other tie sees Real Madrid CF face Athletic Club Bilbao. Madrid, who are celebrating their centenary, are firm favourites to win their 18th Copa del Rey title, especially as the final is to be held at their Santiago Bernabéu stadium. Emilio Butragueño, the club's assistant sporting director and a Madrid legend, expects Bilbao to prove an awkward opponent. "There are often surprises in the cup and its a very difficult and open tie," he said. "However, I have faith in our players."

Bilbao chase record
Bilbao are also keen to win the trophy. They have lifted it on 23 previous occasions and one more win will take them level with Barcelona on the all-time Copa del Rey standings. Bilbao vice-president Fernando Otxoa is hopeful of pooping Madrid's party. "At this stage, all of the semi-finals are difficult and especially against Real Madrid because of how they play," he said. "But I'm optimistic we can play at the same level as we have been playing and we will try and get through. There will be an incredible atmosphere in Bilbao so let's see if we can celebrate Real Madrid's centenary by getting to the final in the Santiago Bernabéu and winning it." The two-legged ties will be be played on 23 and 30 January.