Málaga CF suffered their first defeat of preseason at the Alfonso Murube, losing 2-1 to AD Ceuta FC this Friday evening. Haitam scored Málaga’s only goal with a direct free-kick.
It was a very warm afternoon in Ceuta, as Málaga CF played their second friendly in two days. Juanfran Funes named the following starting-11: Carlos López; Juani, F. Calero, Einar ©, Salinas; Izan M., Dani Lorenzo, Dotor; Haitam, Lobete and Chupe. The main highlight was captain Einar Galilea making his first appearance of the summer.
Málaga made a bright start, with Calero finding the net in the 8th minute, although the goal was ruled out for offside. Shortly after the first hydration break, Ceuta took the lead when Carlos Hernández headed home from a corner (1-0, 34’).
Haitam, one of Málaga’s most active players, equalised a few minutes later with a superb direct free-kick (1-1, 40’). Just before half-time, former Blue and White player Kuki Zalazar restored the home side’s lead (2-1, 45’+1).
After the break, Álex Pastor, making his return to action following a lengthy injury layoff, replaced Einar and took over the captain’s armband. Dotor, who was struggling with a physical issue, was replaced by Rafa in the 48th minute. Calero, also carrying a knock, was withdrawn in minute 64, with Otu coming on in his place. The reserve team player hit the crossbar with a header with his very first touch.
Jauregi replaced goalscorer Haitam in the 65th minute, and following the second hydration break (70’), Rafita, Ramón, Joaquín, Larrubia and Niño came off the bench to play the final stages of the match. Ten minutes from time, Puga, Recio and Arriaza completed Málaga’s substitutions, replacing Juani, Pastor and Rafa.
Málaga had a few isolated chances in the second half, particularly through Chupe, but were unable to find an equaliser. The final 2-1 scoreline saw the hosts lift the trophy and handed Juanfran Funes’ side their first defeat of preseason after four matches played.