The Pride of Vallekas

If Catalan independence becomes a reality, one of the more obvious consequences is that Catalonia may have to form their own league or join another league, such as the French footballing pyramid. But that would mean chaos for two teams that very few have heard of. On 29th August, 2012, Ildefons Lima rejected several offers from clubs in the first division of his home country, whilst accepting an offer made by a club in the fifth division of another country but based in his home country. Yes, Lima, Andorra's captain, most-capped player, top scorer - and also a center back, rejected several offers in the Andorran first division, to accept an offer from a club in the Spanish fifth division (Primera Catalana) which is based in Andorra. The club? FC Andorra*. The reason for doing so was simple - he was giving up higher wages but also a less competitive league. Which is why most players in the Andorra national football team are typically selected from FC Andorra - widely consi...

"I have only good words for the Bukaneros, I have been in Vallecas with so many different people (friends, family, coworkers...) and all of them were amazed by the way the Bukaneros transmit their support both the team and the rest of the crowd. They are the real supporters, they are always singing and cheering. It doesn't matter if the team is winning or losing.... Also, it's incredible how they support all the categories, you can go to a game from Rayo’s female team and they will be there with you, the same with the youth teams, if the alevín (10 and 11 years old kids) are playing a tournament, the Bukaneros will be there supporting - it's really amazing how they live and breathe Rayo Vallecano. The Bukaneros are not only a hooligan group, they fight for something, they are committed with a lot of social actions and they have all my respect. Life is not just about football." That was an interview with Daniel Kobe in yesterday's piece (read it here ) as p...