There was a gala atmosphere for MCF’s 500th official match at their stadium, since the re-founding in 1994. Málaga got off to an intense start, arriving at the rival area on two occasions within the first five minutes, twice with shots from Adrián. Meanwhile Celta attempted to dominate possession with their traditional combinative style of play in the wide area. Keko and Rosales, within the first quarter of an hour, tried their luck from afar with two powerful thrusts.
Peñaranda, situated upfront together with Juanpi, was active between the lines as he sought associations on the wings, occupied by Keko and Chory. Possession belonged to the visitors midway through the first half, but without any arrivals to Roberto’s area. In 26’, the best chance so far for the Malaguistas arrived, thanks to superb play from Peñaranda from the left, which ended with a tight cross shot to the post of Rubén Blanco’s goal.
Aspas, in minute 37, appeared with a header that sailed over the Blue and Whites’ crossbar. Pressure in the other half was constant from Málaga until half-time, with the reward arriving in extra time. A Recio free kick, followed by a Baysse bicycle kick to the crossbar, and an attentive Adrián on the clearance, who headed the ball into the net (1-0, 45’+1).
In the second half, Celta followed their usual pattern of play, whilst Málaga awaited their opportunity to mount quick transitions. The fans, fully behind their team, played the role of an exemplary ‘player number 12’, encouraging the lads with chants and cheers. Lobotka generated the first chance for the visitors in the second half, with a shallow kick that was deflected in minute 66.
Míchel introduced his first substitution in the 76th minute, bringing on En-Nesyri to join the attack in place of Juanpi. Soon after, Celta equalised thanks to Iago Aspas, who headed the ball into back of the net (1-1, 76’). A little later, Ontiveros came on in place of Keko on the right of the attack. But the best was yet to come. A hand ball from a rival defender launched by En-Nesyri led to a penalty, which was converted by Recio to put MCF back in the lead (2-1, 83’).
Roberto, in 89’, made an incredible save on a Maxi Gómez shot that brought Martiricos to its feet. A happy ending to this action film, with a victory that allows Málaga CF a little breathing room with three vital points.
