Rodrigo proud to mark Valencia centenary with Copa final

The Spain striker scored the only goal as Marcelino's side claimed a 1-0 second-leg win in their semi-final with Real Betis on Thursday, thereby securing a 3-2 aggregate triumph.

It means Valencia will play in the final for the first time since they last won the trophy in 2008, with the match taking place just two months after their 100th birthday.

And Rodrigo says facing Barca will be a moment to savour for everyone associated with the club.

"It's a very special season with the centenary and we're very happy to reach the final," he said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

"We've played a very complete knockout tie. We deserve to be in the final.

Some things you just can't explain pic.twitter.com/9iUqXF45NO

— Valencia CF English (@valenciacf_en) February 28, 2019

"We knew they [would] have a lot of possession but that we were going to have a chance on the break.

"This is a final for everyone, for the club, the squad and the fans."

Betis, who led 2-0 in the first leg before conceding twice in the second half, dominated possession at Mestalla but could not find a breakthrough.

Defender Marc Bartra concedes it is a bitter blow not only to miss out on playing in a final at their own stadium, but to do so just a week after they exited the Europa League at the hands of Rennes.

"We really wanted to be in the final," said the former Barca man. "We wanted to get there, and we were able to, but that's football, and not everyone can win.

"It's a big blow. We have to be self-critical but with our heads held high and all pulling in the same direction.