Adrián Niño scored deep into stoppage time on Friday to rescue a 1-1 draw for Málaga CF against RCD Espanyol at La Rosaleda, denying the visitors a victory after Bryan Zaragoza had opened the scoring in the first half.
Adrián Niño Strikes Late to Save Málaga
Málaga found themselves trailing for much of the contest after Zaragoza broke through in the 13th minute with an individual effort that beat goalkeeper Alfonso Herrero. Zaragoza celebrated controversially in front of the La Rosaleda stands after beating two Málaga defenders, Puga and Calero, during his goal-scoring run. Throughout the second half, the hosts pressed forward in search of an equalizer, hitting the crossbar through a long-range free kick from Pablo Martínez.
Espanyol Controls Opening Period with Wide Transitions
Espanyol controlled large stretches of the opening period through quick wide transitions. Manolo González deployed a side that capitalized on defensive hesitations from the home team. Striker Roberto nearly doubled the lead twice before the interval, including a back-heel attempt cleared off the goal line by Carlos Puga and a subsequent shot that deflected off Rafita for a corner kick.
Málaga coach Funes rolled out an untraditional midfield trio featuring Dani Lorenzo, Rafa, and Pablo Martínez, while Calero made his debut in central defense against his former club. Despite early spells of possession down the left flank orchestrated by Rafita and Joaquín, the attack lacked clinical finishing until Niño’s late intervention from the bench. The team’s offensive bluntness left a head-hanging Chupe leading the line before Funes turned to substitutes Dotor, Aznou, and Niño to inject greater verticality into the side. First-half cautions were issued to Puga for a confrontation with Zaragoza and to Chupe for halting a counterattack by Javi Hernández.
Málaga Remains Bottom of League Table
The hard-fought point leaves Málaga at the bottom of the league table with four points through the early stage of the season, still searching for their first win. Sustained only by perseverance, the squad remains winless while continuing to struggle with a lack of cutting edge in the final third.
Supporters Acknowledge Former Forward Roberto
The Friday night fixture brought heightened tension to La Rosaleda, where supporters also paused before kickoff to acknowledge former Málaga forward Roberto. With the stalemate secured, Málaga must prepare for their next league assignment as they attempt to climb out of the basement of the standings.
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