Málaga CF played the first Copa del Rey tie against Coruxo FC at Campo Do Vao this Wednesday. This was the first official match between these rivals, which featured fans in the stands in Vigo. Hicham and Quintana were the main additions to the starting line-up.
The condition of the pitch made movement of the ball somewhat difficult, and direct play prevailed as the match progressed. Following a long kick from Dani Barrio, a ball dropped by Orlando and a shot from Cristian outside the area in minutes 5’ and 11’, in minute 18, Pellicer’s men moved a step closer to the next round. Cristian launched a free kick from the right resulting in Orlando Sá outwitting goalkeeper, Amigo with a subtle touch (0-1). After the goal, the match contained little attacking play. During the remainder of the first half, there was another near miss for the Malaguistas, with an attempt from Cristian that was foiled by the local keeper. Hicham was forced to abandon the pitch in 34’, with Juan Cruz coming on in his place. Following the incident, a cross from the right was complicated by a touch from Benítez, deflected near the right post of the Malaguista goal.
The second half kicked-off with a long free-kick from Cristian, straight into the hands of the local goalkeeper. The field got heavier with every passing minute.
The rival from Vigo piled the pressure on and won several corners. However, in minute 66, Juan Cruz gained possession and dribbled past the keeper to make it 0-2 on the scoreboard at Do Vao. As the match progressed, the lead and the substitutions allowed Málaga CF to impose their pace of play and begin to control the game. In minute 76, a long ball from Dani Barrio ended in a second play, that Juan Cruz filtered to Yanis who slammed the ball into the net to put the Blue and Whites 0-3 in front. There were several transitions and lateral free kicks in the final minutes for both teams, although without excessive danger.
Coruxo attempted to narrow the gap, but Málaga CF remained solid, making the most of the fresh players on the attack who joined play in the second half. Then in minute 92, Julio assisted Caye in front of the area to enable the Malaguista number ‘20’ to net the final 0-4.
Pellicer’s men have surpassed the first obstacle in the Cup competition, qualifying to the next round, something they’ve not achieved since the 2014/15 season. The Malaguistas will find out their next Copa del Rey rival on Friday.
Photo: Archive
