A cloudy day in La Coruña for a match between RC Deportivo and Málaga CF. After four seasons, with the last encounter resulting in a Malaguista victory (0-2), both teams met on LALIGA HYPERMOTION matchday 8 as they returned to the Second Division.
On the pitch, Pellicer made five changes compared to the last match against Elche CF. The starting lineup included Alfonso Herrero; Gabilondo, Nelson Monte, Pastor, Víctor; Manu Molina, Luismi; D. Larrubia, Aaron Ochoa, Antoñito Cordero; and Baturina.
The match began with both teams energetic and looking for goals. The first clear chance fell to Málaga. Baturina regained possession in midfield and found Aaron Ochoa, who turned, dribbled, and delivered a pass into space for Antoñito's run. The homegrown player, after Barcia failed to clear the ball, crossed it past Helton, but his shot was deflected by the post.
The home team responded with several dangerous plays. The first was halted by a block from Gabilondo after a shot from Yeremay. The second was a header from Barbero that went slightly wide.
The following minutes were played at a high tempo, with both teams transitioning quickly and looking to score the first goal of the match. Deportivo had several long-range shots, while Málaga created multiple opportunities to take the lead through Larrubia. However, the score remained 0-0 until half-time.
After the break, Pellicer made his first substitutions. Dioni and Izan Merino replaced Baturina and Manu Molina. The balance between the two teams persisted, although Málaga began to control a greater percentage of possession.
In the 54th minute, a key play occurred. Lucas Pérez fell in the Málaga penalty area, and the referee awarded a penalty. However, after consulting with VAR, the referee canceled the penalty.
The second half continued without clear chances. Around the hour mark, Aaron Ochoa was substituted for Yanis Rahmani. Pellicer continued to seek alternatives from the bench.
Mella and Mario Soriano both tried their luck from distance, but Alfonso Herrero was solid in goal. Meanwhile, Gabilondo and Yanis Rahmani had opportunities to put Málaga CF ahead. The full-back cut inside the area and aimed for a shot, but the ball went slightly wide after deflecting off a local defender. Rahmani's attempt was a powerful header that went off target after a lateral cross from Víctor.
Kevin Medina came on to replace Antoñito. He aimed for the goal right after entering the field, striking powerfully at the near post.
Despite the high pace of the match and the chances created by both teams, the game ended in a 0-0 draw. Málaga CF earned one point and remains in the middle of the table, staying unbeaten away from home with 11 points after 8 league matches played.
