Manuel Escribano Triumphs in Seville with a Memorable Bullfight

There was great anticipation at the Real Maestranza. With a packed crowd and a respectful atmosphere, three determined matadors faced the ever-challenging bulls of Victorino Martín. First to confront the evening was El Cid, returning to this historic arena with the weight of experience. His first bull was reluctant and lacked focus, and despite the matador’s composed style and steady hand, the bull quickly faded. The sword didn’t help either.

His second bull, dedicated to his loyal sword handler, also offered few opportunities. There were some notable moments on the left side, but the bull’s strength soon declined. El Cid showed his classical style and calm presence, but the bull, wary and dangerous, ruined any chance of a cohesive performance.

Manuel Escribano’s first bull was reserved and difficult, offering little opportunity either during the initial stages or in the banderillas. Nonetheless, true to his committed style, Escribano placed three solid pairs of banderillas and executed a technically sound performance with the muleta, keeping the bull at mid-height and avoiding excess pressure. A final series of natural passes stood out, but the sword work fell short of reward. He was applauded after a warning.

But glory awaited with the fifth bull. Escribano greeted him with a portagayola, a dramatic opening pass on his knees, followed by electric cape work that lit up the crowd. In the banderillas, he delivered a dazzling performance that thrilled the audience, finishing with a daring pair placed while standing on the step of the barrera. With the muleta, he managed the bull’s initial fierceness and built a powerful and well-structured faena, showing great rhythm and connection. On the right, he produced long, flowing passes, and on the left he let go entirely in an outstanding series. After a strong sword thrust—following a warning—the president awarded two ears, and the bull, Mosquetón, number 76, received a lap of honour as he was dragged from the arena.

Daniel Luque, always confident and thoughtful, opened his performance with elegant cape work with the fourth bull. He dedicated the fight to his late father and began a sincere and intense faena. Though the bull was not easy, Luque read him well, particularly on the left side, where he achieved moments of real depth. He finished with a slightly rearward sword thrust and received an ovation after an ungranted request for an ear.

With the sixth and final bull, Luque faced an animal with no drive or willingness, who quickly became defensive and impossible to showcase. Still, Luque showed courage before cutting things short.