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First Andalusian derby of the season goes to Almería (0-1)

Defeat for Málaga CF by UD Almería, at La Rosaleda, on LaLiga SmartBank matchday 4. A goal in the first half from Sekou led the visitors to victory.

There was a good atmosphere for this Andalusian derby with over 500 Almería fans in the stands. On the pitch, Víctor made multiple changes to the Málaga line-up. Reserve team goalkeeper Kellyan made his official debut, along with Albanian forward Sadiku. In defence, the Luis Hernández-Lombán duo returned; on the left Diego as ‘3’ and Juankar upfront; and on the pivot, Rolón debuted together with Boulahroud. In regard to the system of play, the coach opted for a flexible 4-2-3-1.

The rival, Almería, who in minute 3 generated their first chance of the game with a dangerous heel-kick from Sekou. Málaga CF responded quickly with a clear opportunity following a cross from Renato on the right and a close-range attempt from Adrián that went out. However, rival striker Sekou appeared again, beating Kellyan to put the Red and Whites in front (0-1, 9’). The goal boosted the visitors’ confidence, who controlled the tempo of the game.

In 29’ Juankar sent an aerial ball to Sadiku, who skied his header over the crossbar. The Blue and Whites, with more heart than football, narrowly missed out on an equaliser in 43’. Adrián touched on a long shot from Sadiku that was subsequently blocked by the Almería keeper, Fernando. The scoreboard remained at 0-1 at half-time.

Víctor Sánchez del Amo introduced two changes in the second half. Pacheco and homegrown player Hugo substituted Rolón and Renato Santos. Diego González, on the attack, launched a dangerous shot in 49’. Five minutes later, a shot from in front of the area by Adrián was stopped by Fernando. The crowd cheered on the team in search of an equaliser. The rhythm of the Malaguistas increased, whilst Almería were increasingly entrenched in their half.

Lombán, following a Juankar corner kick, nearly went level with a header in 67’. Keko, in place of Cifuentes, was the final Blue and White substitution in 70’. Time went on and Málaga lacked presence in the rival area due to the consistency of a solid Almería. Despite attempts, particularly on the right wing with Keko, the team didn’t manage to score to at least claim a point. The 0-1 final result went to the Red and Whites.

The second consecutive defeat for Málaga CF who have 4 points out of 4 matches in LaLiga SmartBank 19/20.