There was a fantastic atmosphere in the stands for this historic Andalusian derby, with around 1,000 Cádiz fans in attendance. On the pitch, Víctor introduced various changes to the line-up in almost all lines. In goal, Kellyan was in action in place of international Munir; on the left, Cristo debuted to become player number 358 to wear the MCF jersey in an official match; Keko occupied the right and in midfield, together with Luis Muñoz, were Rolón, Benkhemassa and Boulahroud behind Sadiku.
At the start of play, Cádiz showed their credentials with a couple of dangerous actions featuring striker, Lozano in 6’ and 9’. For their part, Málaga accumulated players in midfield to close up spaces and prevent rapid transitions which are typical of the division leader. However, after the first third of play, a run on the right by the Yellows led to a goal for Lozano driven by Nano Mesa on the goal line. Following a VAR check, the visitors’ goal was confirmed. (0-1, 31’).
Without any further notable developments, the first half was consumed with a minimal advantage for the Yellows. In the second half, Cifuentes replaced Rolán with Keko in front on the right wing. Málaga came out with momentum and generated various approaches with Sadiku, Keko and Luis Muñoz seeking out the goal in the initial 10 minutes of the second half.
The tireless Malaguista fans didn’t stop supporting their team. Víctor made another substitution, bringing on Antoñín for Benkhemassa in 59’. It was precisely the reserve team forward, in 63’, who had the best chance for the Blue and Whites so far with a cross shot that grazed the post. MCF dominated the ball and the pace of play, against the rival who was limited to retaining their advantage in their half awaiting a counter-attack. And it came, with a brilliant individual action by Caye Quintana, who overcame Kellyan almost without an angle (0-2, 73’).
Fifteen minutes before the end, Renato replaced Luis Muñoz in the third and final Malaguista substitution. Antoñín, with an accurate and well-placed header, narrowed the gap for Málaga (1-2, 84’). A vibrant Keko propelled the ball to the crossbar with a long shot in 86’ and sent the ball high in 87’. Martiricos roared in search of a well-deserved equaliser. In stoppage time, Keko again came close to a goal following a Cifuentes clearance from a Renato shot. At full-time, the leader of the category sealed a 1-2 win and Málaga CF remains in relegation positions with eight points after 11 matches so far in the competition.
