The ‘Malaguistas’ necessity to earn points and secure a positive result was evident from the first minute of play at the difficult stadium that is the New San Mamés.
Filipenko was in midfield along with Recio due to Tissone’s suspension, whilst Angeleri and Albentosa paired up as centre-forwards to counteract the aerial play from the Bilbao rival.
A key moment of the match was in minute 19 when San José collided with Charles, leaving the home side a man down following a red card.
Málaga CF dominated possession but couldn’t let their guard down against the dangerous Athletic attack. The best chances for the Blue and Whites came at the end of the first half, with a good display between Pablo, Charles and Recio that was stopped by Irazoiz, as well as a shot from Amrabat following Pablo gaining possession, which crashed into the side of the net.
After half-time Gracia brought Juanpi on in place of Filipenko who had a yellow card, and later introduced Santa Cruz to play upfront alongside Charles.
Despite going on the attack, the Blue and Whites didn’t generate any clear scoring opportunities in the second half and the match ended in a 0-0 draw. Another point earned from an away game and no goals conceded. The first LaLiga goal away from La Rosaleda will therefore have to come next weekend in Vallecas.
