The LaLiga World Carranza Trophy kicks off on a high

There was a carnival atmosphere and plenty of surprises at the 62nd Carranza Trophy. Cadiz CF, Atletico Madrid, Malaga CF and the Nigerian All-Stars, a team made up of Nigeria Professional Football League stars, all gathered for the event at the Ramon de Carranza stadium.

Cadiz and Atletico kicked off proceedings with a hard-fought match which was finally decided on penalties. Cadiz's David Sanchez levelled the game at the death from the penalty spot after Yannick Carrasco had given the visitors an early lead and the match went to a penalty shootout. Home keeper, Alberto Cifuentes turned hero as his two saves saw Cadiz through to the final.

Exciting times in the Carranza Trophy!

Relive the @Cadiz_CF -@atletienglish penalty shootout at #LaLigaWorld. https://t.co/qiQHErY0xg

— LaLiga (@LaLigaEN) August 13, 2016

"Everything surrounding the Carranza Trophy is very important as it's a tournament we really get to enjoy," said the home keeper. Atletico midfielder, Augusto Fernandez, described taking part in the competition as the perfect chance to "find some form."

Then it was the African team's turn to shine and they played some good football in their game against Malaga, although the LaLiga side took their chances better and ran out 4-1 winners. Man of the match Sandro Ramirez, who scored two of his team's four goals, was full of praise for the Nigerian side: "They were tough opposition. We knew that we'd have to work hard from the start in order to win and make it to the final."

Nigerian keeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa, a firm favourite amongst the fans in Cadiz, was pleased with his team despite the defeat.  "It was a great game because we gave it our all, but Malaga are a very good team."

The tournament continues this Saturday with Atletico and the Nigerian All-Stars vying for third and four place, before the grand final between Cadiz and Malaga. Both matches will be aired for free on LaLiga's official You Tube channel.