Málaga CF arrived at the Copa de Campeones final having had an excellent tournament. In the inaugural match, they beat FC Barcelona by a significant 4-2, and in the semi-finals defeated host team, RC Celta de Vigo by 2-3.
The MCF Academy side came within a whisker of reaching a historical feat. During what will now be a disappointing time for the Blue and Whites’ juvenil boys, they will undoubtedly remember with pride their outstanding performance in this Cup competition. A goal from a free kick in minute 115, as so many goals had been scored in their comebacks, would bring an end to their title hopes, but not their excellent work.
In regard to the match, equality prevailed throughout the first half. Malaguistas and Madridistas shared opportunities and possession over the 45 minutes. The Blue and Whites’ defence disarmed the rival attacks, and the rival did the same with Málaga CF’s approaches.
Álex Robles generated the most promising chance to open the scoring in minute 27. The winger overcame goalkeeper, Belman after a poor exit, but at the moment of execution he had no angle and his shot went parallel to the goal line.
Madridista, Martín was shown his second yellow card for a hard foul in midfield, leading to his expulsion in the 31st minute. At half-time, the result remained 0-0.
The second half was a replica of the first. Both teams did not spare their efforts to get on the scoreboard, but both defences proved to be impregnable. In the final stretch of normal time, the Malaguistas had several opportunities to take the lead; Joel and Eppy tested the reflexes of the Madrid keeper, and a right-footer from José Carlos crashed into the crossbar in minute 88. Finally, in the absence of goals, the match went to extra time.
During extra time, the two teams tried to maintain pace. However, the Whites scored the 0-1 in minute 115 with a goal from Óscar. This goal would determine the final result.
This match brings an end to the Malaguistas’ brilliant journey in this tournament, which is now somewhat bittersweet, but the team can still boast of being a benchmark in national youth football.
Match stats
Málaga CF: Kellyan, Álex Robles, Álex Sánchez, Juande, Iván, José Carlos (Cedenilla 90’), Joel, Maty (Hugo 45’), Alberto (Antoñín 79’), Eppy and Hicham (Escardó 67’).
Real Madrid CF: Belman, Zabarte (Soti 84’), Fran García, Manu Hernando, Martín, Alberto, Toni, Dani Gómez (Llario 117’), Óscar, Franchu (Echu 101’) and Javi.
Goals:
0-1 Óscar (115’).
Referee: Brea Peón, Pablo. Yellow cards were shown to visitors; Óscar (75’) and Alberto (113’), whilst Martín was sent off with a double yellow card (29’ and 31’). With regard to the Blue and Whites, yellow cards were shown to; Maty (20’), Alberto (77’), José Carlos (85’) and Robles (119’).
Information: Match corresponding to the final of the XXIII Copa de Campeones. The game was held at O Couto stadium (Orense) in front of 4,000 spectators.
