Málaga CF returned to the legendary Estadio La Romareda more than six years since the last clash with Real Zaragoza. Malaguista coach, Juan Ramón López Muñiz, introduced up to four changes to the starting-11 in regard to the last league match against CF Reus. Adrián, Juanpi, Pacheco and Harper made way for Lacen, Renato Santos and homegrown players Keidi and Hugo in the starting line-up. In addition, the Blue and Whites’ coach modified the tactics, moving from the usual 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3 formation.
The match got off to a balanced start with a showing of great respect between both sides. Zaragoza dominated the ball better in the early stages, whilst Málaga looked to the right wing for Cifu and Hugo to try and do some damage to the home team. Pombo had the clearest chance for Real Zaragoza with a promising shot from in front of the area, but the ball was deflected by Munir. A good display from Ricca on the left wing ended with a free kick on the edge of the by-line. Renato served up a shot to the far post, connecting with Ricca who headed the ball into the back of Cristian’s goal (0-1) in minute 29 of play. Zaragoza had an opportunity to go level a minute later, but the ball licked the left post of Munir’s goal. The first half ended with a partial victory for Muñiz’s men.
The second half got underway with two changes to the Malaguista team. Adrián and Juanpi came on in substitution of Lacen and Hugo. Zaragoza got off to a very strong start in the second 45 minutes of play and had a good chance of an equaliser thwarted by a great Munir save. It wasn’t the only one. Ten minutes later there was another superb save by the Malaguista keeper. Víctor Fernández’s team took control of the game and pressed the Blue and Whites, and the second goal of the game stemmed from a counter attack. Adrián defined with his left foot to the right of the rival keeper (0-2) and the match ended in victory for the Malaguista squad.
