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Indisputable victory for the leaders (3-0)

A win for Málaga CF against Córdoba CF, at La Rosaleda, on LaLiga 1|2|3 matchday 5. Goals from Adrián, Hicham and Ricca sealed the victory for the Blue and Whites.

There was a superb atmosphere at La Rosaleda for this duel of regional rivalry, with the Malaguista fans cheering on their team, as well as a large group of Córdoba supporters bringing colour to the visitors’ stand. Muñiz introduced 10 changes to the starting line-up in relation to the last Cup game against Almería, with Hicham as the only player repeated in the line-up.

Málaga quickly showed their attacking power. An attempt by Ontiveros, with a trademark zigzag move, hit the post in 11’. It was the prelude to the opening goal. A ‘made in Luis Hernández’ throw-in, aerial extension with assistance from Blanco Leschuk and a header into goal from Adrián (1-0, 15’). Following the Blue and Whites’ goal, control of play continued to belong to Muñiz’s men, whilst Córdoba sought to find their place in the game.

In the closing stages of the first half, the imposing figure of N’Diaye featured in the wide area. And, just before half-time, the locals netted a second goal. Harper faithfully fought for the ball on the left, passed to Leschuk whose close-range shot was deflected by the rival keeper, for Hicham to then head the ball into the back of the net (2-0, 39’). The young Moroccan player, suffering with injury discomfort, shortly afterwards stepped off the pitch, and was replaced by Juankar (42’).

With the score in Málaga’s favour, the second half got underway. In 56’, a free kick from Ontiveros, and a Leschuk header narrowly missed the target. The connection between the player from Marbella and the Argentinean almost led to the third goal in the 61st minute. An impressive assist from the striker set up a chance for Juankar, who didn’t manage a finish at the far post (66’). It wasn’t until 67’ that Córdoba bothered Munir, who diverted a long shot from Aguado.

The fans didn’t stop cheering, Mexican waving and passionately supporting the team. Then, during the celebrations, Ontiveros launched a free kick that team captain, Fede Ricca, following a defensive clearance, converted with a left-footer inside the area (3-0, 72’). Solid at the back and efficient upfront, the perfect reflection of the stamp Muñiz has instilled in the team in record time. In 81’, homegrown player Harper received a standing ovation as he left the pitch, with Koné making his League debut.

In the 84th minute, a stunning run from Leschuk could have rounded off his great game with another goal. And in 89’, there was more applause for a very Malagueño substitution: Pacheco, during his debut at La Rosaleda in a home game, replaced Ontiveros. The final whistle confirmed the fifth win of the season in as many games for Malaga CF, the indisputable leader of LaLiga 1|2|3.

Te quiero, Málaga!