Review Madrid – 19 April 2026

The second novillada of the season at Las Ventas left mixed feelings. There was commitment, moments of quality and good technical work from all three young bullfighters, but the limited strength of Antonio Palha’s bulls shaped the outcome of the afternoon.

El Mella made the strongest connection with the crowd. From the outset, he showed determination with the first bull, a serious animal from which he managed to draw several noteworthy right-handed series. His performance grew in intensity, eventually earning warm applause. With the fourth, he thrilled the audience with a striking kneeling reception at the gate (porta gayola). With the muleta, he produced flowing and deep passes in the centre of the ring, including impressive passes behind the back. However, the bull quickly lost energy, cutting short any chance of a bigger result.

Tomás Bastos demonstrated clear progression. His performance was defined by composure and control, allowing him to build a solid display against the third, a demanding bull that offered little. Bastos relied on technique and positioning to deliver meritorious muletazos, acknowledged with applause. With the sixth, more manageable on the right side, he again showed his ability, although the lack of consistency from the bull prevented a more complete performance.

Cid de María, meanwhile, stood out for his determination and persistence. His first bull offered few options and his effort went largely unrewarded. It was with the fifth where he found better opportunities, despite the bull’s limited strength. Drawing on experience and firmness, he constructed a serious and structured faena that was recognised with applause after the final sword thrust.

Overall, Palha’s novillada was notably uneven, both in presentation and behaviour. Some bulls showed movement, but they lacked transmission and stamina, ultimately limiting the chances of a trio that showed attitude and potential, though without tangible rewards.