Málaga CF and CD Numancia battled it out on LaLiga 1|2|3 matchday 30 at Los Pajaritos on a chilly Monday evening. The cold didn’t deter the dozens of Malaguista fans who could be heard cheering on their team at the historic stadium in Soria. As is tradition between these two sides, the atmosphere amongst the fans was exemplary, highlighting the friendship that has existed amongst these teams for many years.
The Blue and Whites could finally count on Pau Torres for this match, who has been called-up by Spain’s Under-21s for two imminent fixtures in the FIFA window. However, following a request from the Club, the RFEF allowed the player to join the national team after the league game.
As for the game, the two teams sought to settle in the wide area in the initial stages of play, where they fought for possession and control of the ball. Midway through the first 45 minutes, Muñiz’s men advanced lines in search of the rival area. In 34’, first Adrián and then Renato Santos generated two consecutive chances to open the scoring, but it wasn’t to be.
However, it was the home side that took the lead thanks to a goal from Diamanka. The midfielder made the most of a rebound from a previous shot that hit the post (1-0, 40’). The score stayed the same at half-time.
Malaguista coach, Juan Ramón López Muñiz made some changes in the second half, bringing on Iván Alejo and Blanco Leschuk in substitution of Keidi and Mula. The players got off to a fresh start and frequented the rival area, with Ricca scoring the equaliser in 50’. The captain made things all square with an accurate shot at the target following a corner (1-1, 49’).
In the final stages of play, both teams had chances to tip the balance, particularly with a shot from local player, Fran Villalba (80’) that grazed the crossbar, and another in favour of the Blue and Whites, a powerful header from Adrián following a corner and a superb counterattack from juvenil player, Hugo, Muñiz’s third substitution in minute 70 (in place of Seleznov). In addition, Malaguistas Iván Rodríguez, Pau and N’Diaye were shown the yellow card which carries sanction, and as such will not be part of the next match in Tarragona.
Following the 1-1 final score, Málaga CF remains in promotion play-off positions to LaLiga Santander, in 5th place in the standings with 51 points, six from direct promotion and +3 above 7th place.
