La Rosaleda experienced a spectacular atmosphere this Sunday 7th April. Málaga celebrated their 120 years of love with football in an emotionally charged match with 24,422 fans in the stands. Málaga CF honoured this anniversary with an exit arch that emulated the old entrance of La Rosaleda Stadium, a historic line-up featuring Bernardi, Ben Barek, Pepe Álvarez, Juan Carlos Pérez-Frías, Esteban Vigo, Luis Merino, Juanma, Basti, Movilla, Isa Guerrero, Valcarce, Fernando Sanz and Kameni, and with former presidents, Eduardo Padilla, Francisco García Anaya, José Pardo, Fernando Puche, Federico Beltrán and Fernando Sanz in the box.
Additionally, the Blue and Whites took to the pitch wearing a very special version of the shirt commemorating the 120th anniversary of Málaga football. The uniform emulated the kit that CD Málaga wore in the 1988/89 season, with the exception that the usual advertising was maintained, with that of Sabor a Málaga adapted to a more retro format to complete a spectacular kit.
In terms of play, Málaga CF started out with Herrero; Jokin, Nelson, Juande, Murillo; Genaro, Manu Molina; Ferreiro, Kevin; Aaron Ochoa and Roberto.
The match got off to an even start. Both teams sought to dominate the game and manage the tempo of the match with great intensity.
Homegrown player Aaron Ochoa tried his luck from in front of the box in the 13th minute of play. The young midfielder finished a good personal move on the edge of the area, but the shot went wide. However, in the 26th minute AD Ceuta FC took the lead through Cedric Teguia. The attacker launched a powerful header to the far post. Herrero touched it but was unable to prevent the goal (0-1).
The Malaguistas responded to the goal by multiplying their movements into the opposing area. Spurred on by their fans, they managed to go level in the 40th minute. Ferreiro served a set piece from the left wing - caused by a foul on Kevin after a great sprint - aimed at the far post. Juande was waiting there to head the ball from mid-height and bring La Rosaleda to its feet in an explosion of joy (1-1, 40'). Then came half-time.
In the second half the match continued with the same tone, equality and intensity in the attempts to control the ball. Alfonso Herrero made a new memorable save in the 53rd minute. The goalkeeper stopped a low shot from point-blank range just one metre away.
In the last breath, Víctor García sent a precise cross from the left that reached the head of Jokin Gabilondo at the far post. The winger launched himself with soul and faith to finish it on goal, but the opposing goalkeeper blocked the attempt with confidence. With the referee's three whistles, the distribution of points was declared.
