0-1: First win of the season, well-deserved and hard-earned
A solid performance and Leo Baptistao’s match-winning goal propel UD Almería to a vital away victory against Cultural y Deportiva Leonesa
UD Almería clinched their first win of the season with a 0-1 triumph over Cultural y Deportiva Leonesa at the Reino de León stadium. The victory, which came after a determined performance from the Rojiblancos, was both fair and deserved, with Leo Baptistao's first-half header proving to be the match-winner.
Head coach Rubi made two changes to his starting XI from the previous Matchday, introducing Bonini in central defence and Gui Guedes in midfield. Bonini partnered with Chumi in the heart of defence, while Alex Muñoz moved to left-back, leaving Centelles on the bench. Guedes' inclusion provided an extra creative spark in midfield, complementing the attacking prowess of Baptistao, Arribas, Embarba, and Lázaro.
The Indálicos dominated possession from the outset, controlling the game without creating many clear-cut chances. Their build-up play was fluid, although they struggled to break down Cultural's defence. Nonetheless, UD Almería appeared more resilient and compact than in previous outings, and Rubi’s pre-match expectations of a solid defensive performance were met.
Despite a few nervy moments, most notably in the 40th minute when Cultural's Luis Chacón narrowly missed a cross, UD Almería kept their defensive shape intact. The first half ended 0-0, with the hosts creating minimal threat.
In the second half, the match became more intense, with both sides exchanging chances. However, it was the visitors who struck first. In the 57th minute, a well-executed cross from Alex Muñoz found Baptistao in the box, who directed his header past the Cultural keeper to make it 0-1.
With the lead, UD Almería regained control of the match, patiently managing possession and making sure to neutralize the hosts’ increasing pressure. Despite some late substitutions—Baptistao coming off for Arnau and Soko and Selvi replacing Lopy and Lázaro—UD Almería remained composed. In the 76th minute, Arnau nearly added a second after a dangerous cross, but the Cameroonian striker's attempt was narrowly off target.
In the dying stages, Cultural threw everything forward and Andrés Fernández made crucial saves to preserve the lead. Despite 10 minutes of added time, Rubi's side held firm and bagged all 3 points, with a solid, resilient performance that will give them confidence going forward.
