Claudio Lopez: "2019 cup win took me back to 1999"

The 20th anniversary of Valencia CF's 1999 Copa del Rey win is coming up, and one of the protagonists of that memorable June 26th, Claudio Lopez, still has fond memories of the 3-0 win over Atletico Madrid. The VCF legend, who scored twice in the game at La Cartuja in Seville, spoke to VCF Media this week to talk about another cup triumph: That of 2019, in which the club won a first trophy in 11 years.

“I watched the game on the television and I got really emotional. I felt a lot of pride when the two teams came onto the pitch and the enormous banner was unveiled, showing my face along with those of two great players in Kempes and Baraja," explained the Argentine.

"Then, seeing the entire section decked out in white, and experiencing the atmosphere that lasted from start to finish, made me remember our 1999 cup win."

"I was very happy for Parejo and for the entire team, who were able to end the season in such a brilliant way. It was a difficult year, but that spectacular finale made you forget the suffering. In the moment in which Parejo lifted the cup, it took me back in time, and I felt the immense happiness from our own Copa del Rey win in Seville," recalled Lopez.

He describes the 1999 win as “One of the best memories of my football career. Being able to enjoy it with the fans and hear the Valencia CF anthem at the end of the game was unforgettable."

"I feel honoured to be able to enjoy this latest trophy along with thousands and thousands of Valencianistas. It was the best way to end a season that had already had a very good finish in the league, with VCF qualifying for the Champions League."