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Cameroonian football icon Samuel Eto'o continues to inspire players long after the end of his career
Canadian forward Cyle Larin has faced challenges since he arrived at Real Mallorca last August. Despite some struggles in LaLiga, Larin has found success in the Copa del Rey, reminiscent of a historic journey led by Cameroon's legendary striker Samuel Eto'o.
Copa del Rey success amid La Liga struggles
Larin's initial La Liga outings saw him fail to find the net in his first 10 appearances, all as a substitute. However, his breakthrough came in the Copa del Rey, where he scored in a convincing 4-0 win over CD Boiro in November. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey for Larin and Real Mallorca.
"It's a special game for us, and the Mallorca fans and everyone is focused on winning this game and doing something incredible," Larin told Reuters at Mallorca's pre-final media day. "This season has been hard and survival (in La Liga) is a push but this gives us hope to build something. That's the reason I came, I saw this club growing and I want to be part of that."
A magical journey to the final
Real Mallorca's Copa del Rey campaign has been nothing short of magical, reminiscent of their 2003 triumph led by Samuel Eto'o. Larin's contributions have been pivotal, with four goals in six Copa appearances. Notable moments include his 120th-minute winner against Tenerife and a crucial goal in the quarter-final upset against Girona.
"Most of my goals have come in the Copa del Rey and hopefully that can continue in the final," said Larin, who joined from Real Valladolid having also had spells in Belgium and Turkey. "I've watched the videos of Eto'o scoring in the 2003 final. It's special to be there again as it's not every day you get to play in a cup final."
Aiming for glory in the final
As Real Mallorca prepares to face Athletic Bilbao in the Copa del Rey final, Larin reflects on the significance of the occasion. Despite challenges in La Liga, Larin sees the final as an opportunity to make history and continue the club's growth.
"We aren't the favourites but in the other matches in the Copa del Rey we weren't either. We are going to give everything at the weekend against a very strong team," he said.
Emulating Eto'o's legacy
Larin's journey with Real Mallorca reflects the club's resilience and determination. Amidst the struggle for survival in La Liga, the Copa del Rey final provides hope and inspiration for Larin and his teammates. The focus remains on achieving something incredible and building towards a brighter future.
Larin acknowledges the historic significance of the Copa del Rey final, drawing inspiration from the legendary Samuel Eto'o. Eto'o's iconic performance in the 2003 final serves as a source of motivation for Larin as he aims to leave his mark on Real Mallorca's history.
What next for Larin and Sociedad?
As the final approaches, Larin remains focused on the task at hand. Despite being considered underdogs against Athletic Bilbao, Larin and Real Mallorca are determined to give their all and create another memorable chapter in the club's storied history.
By drawing parallels between Larin's journey and Samuel Eto'o's historic feats, Real Mallorca aims to inspire a new generation of fans and players alike. As Larin and his teammates gear up for the final showdown, the spirit of determination and resilience continues to define their pursuit of glory in the Copa del Rey.
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