0-1: UD Almería secure vital victory at Gran Canaria Stadium
The Rojiblancos triumph over UD Las Palmas in a gritty away performance on the island
UD Almería extended their impressive start to the season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over UD Las Palmas at the Gran Canaria Stadium. This win, their second consecutive triumph, was crucial given the quality of their opponents and the challenging environment.
Rubi made 3 key changes to his line-up, altering the double pivot and the central forward role. Gui Guedes and Dzodic came in for Lopy and Baba, while Soko replaced Léo Baptistão in the attack. Despite the changes, the Rojiblancos maintained a similar structure to the team that took on Real Valladolid CF with the main focus on stability and maintaining possession against a dangerous UD Las Palmas side.
The encounter began as a tense battle for control, with both sides wary of conceding early. UD Almería started with the lion’s share of possession, but UD Las Palmas soon grew into the game, asserting themselves in attack. The first half was a cagey affair, with both outfits creating few clear-cut chances, but UD Almería capitalised when it mattered most.
In the 36th minute, with the Amarillos pressing hard, the visitors struck. A well-executed cross from Álex Muñoz on the left found the head of Sergio Arribas, who netted a clinical header to give UD Almería a crucial lead (0-1).The goal arrived just as the home side had begun to grow in confidence, leaving UD Las Palmas to regroup for the second half.
Rubi’s side faced a tougher second half as the islanders came out determined to overturn the deficit. However, UD Almería remained disciplined and resolute, denying the hosts any space to exploit. Midway through the second period, a key moment arrived when Lukovic of UD Las Palmas was sent off after a VAR review for a foul on Bonini, leaving the home side with 10 men for the remainder of the match.
Despite the numerical advantage, UD Almería’s defensive solidity remained intact, though they were not without their own opportunities. In the 65th minute, Nico Melamed struck the post with a long-range effort that could have sealed the win.
The match took another twist in the 67th minute when Embarba received his second yellow card, reducing the visitors to 10 men. With both teams now down to 10 players, the game opened up, but UD Almería kept their composure.
The Catalan coach made several tactical changes, bringing on fresh legs in the form of Baptistão, Puigmal and Selvi while Soko, Arribas and Dzodic were benched. Though they had moments to extend their lead, the Rojiblancos failed to convert several chances. Selvi, in particular, missed a golden opportunity in the 79th minute, as his effort was saved by UD Las Palmas' keeper.
Despite the missed chances, UD Almería's defence stood firm and they held on to their lead in the dying embers. UD Las Palmas continued to push, but the Rojiblancos’ resilience and tactical discipline ensured they secured 3 valuable away points.
This victory, characterised by grit and strategic execution, strengthens UD Almería’s position early in the season and highlights their ability to perform under pressure.