Malaga CF frustrated by Eibar’s win in tense opener

The new Segunda División campaign got under way at La Rosaleda for Malaga CF on Saturday with a 1-1 draw against Eibar, a result that left Sergio Pellicer’s side frustrated, with the coach’s attacking approach producing chances but no decisive breakthrough.

The match opened with the hosts on the front foot, fielding debutants Javi Montero, Adrián Niño and Carlos Dotor. Pellicer left Dani Sánchez and Joaquín on the bench, instead trusting players he considered sharper in pre-season.

The team immediately began to play vertically and aggressively, with Carlos Puga (right) and David Larrubia (left) posing the greatest danger.

Malaga had the majority of possession in the opening half and several half-chances. Puga, who was a solo player that sparked the appeal for penalty kicks as well as a goalkeeper save, came the closest to scoring when he forced the Eibar goalkeeper into a saving move. Julenlobete also saw his attempt at a spot-kick rejected.

Luismi’s first setback was a heavy injury that sent him to the hospital for precautionary tests.

Hosts Punished

In spite of their dominance, the hosts could not find the back of the net. Their momentum after the half was abruptly stopped in the 52nd. Eibar executed a well-worked set piece that ended with Javier Martón arriving unmarked at the far post to score, silencing the home crowd.

The Basque team then slowed the game, causing frustration amongst fans and players with its time-wasting tactics and stops.

Malaga was rewarded for their risk-taking after the setback. A misplaced Eibar pass in their own half allowed Niño to pounce and strike first-time past the goalkeeper, scoring his first official goal for the club after impressing in pre-season.

Late Spark

The equaliser reignited La Rosaleda’s atmosphere and gave Pellicer a new wind. Chupete, the substitute, came close to scoring twice. Once with a deflected effort and then again with a header which flew wide. Larrubia, meanwhile, continued to threaten, but could not find a finish.

Even though they exerted heavy pressure on their opponents, they never managed to score the winning goal. This was especially disappointing because the team had controlled large parts of the match. They also generated more danger for the opponent.

The performance, however, showed signs of a more attacking and determined approach under Pellicer, with debutants like Montero impressing defensively and Niño making an immediate mark with his equaliser.

Malaga’s reserves will have the chance to win their first match of the season next Sunday at La Rosaleda.