1-0: Improved UD Almería edge Al Jazira Club in second pre-season clash
The Rojiblancos beat tough opponents from the United Arab Emirates with a match-winning goal courtesy of Perovic. The third friendly takes place against Marbella FC this Thursday
UD Almería continue to build momentum in their pre-season preparations, showing noticeable improvement in their second friendly as they overcame a resilient Al Jazira Club side 1-0. The standout moment came early with Perovic netting the decisive goal following a slick exchange with Lázaro Vinicius.
Compared to their opening off-season match against Málaga CF, the Rojiblancos looked sharper, particularly in the first half against the UAE outfit led by former Real Betis playmaker Nabil Fakir.
Head coach Rubi opted for a significantly altered starting XI from the Málaga CF encounter. Interestingly, the second-half lineup from that friendly started this time around, with goalkeeper Alex Fernández and left-back Alex Muñoz both making their debuts following summer arrivals. Serbian midfielder Dzodic also retained his place, though he featured in central defence on this occasion. The starting lineup featured: Alex Fernández between the sticks; Chirino, Nelson Monte, Dzodic, and Alex Muñoz in defence; Selvi and Guedes in midfield; Léo Baptistão, Nico Melamed, and Perovic in advanced roles behind central striker Lázaro Vinicius.
The Andalusians played with greater cohesion and control, with 4 summer signings catching the eye. Dzodic, deployed at centre-back, impressed with his distribution and calm under pressure. Nico Melamed operated more centrally and looked more involved, while Perovic remained a constant threat. The Serbian attacker got his reward in the 11th minute, finishing a well-worked move that began with a swift one-two combination with team-mate Lázaro.
Rubi kept faith with the starting side after half-time, before making wholesale changes on the hour mark. The new lineup featured Jesús López, Marcos Luna, Chumi, Pedro Felipe, Centelles, Marcos Peñas, Lopy, Léo Baptistão, Sergio Arribas, Embarba and Soko.
The tempo dipped noticeably in the second half with both teams struggling to maintain rhythm and precision. Despite the lack of further goals, individual performances stood out. Lopy provided steel and composure in midfield, while Soko brought physicality and energy to the attack. The former SD Huesca man continues to prove his worth as a dynamic offensive option.
The match took place at La Dama de Noche Stadium within the Banús Football Center complex, located near the team’s accommodation and training hub.
Next up, UD Almería face Marbella FC on Thursday morning at the Westin La Quinta Stadium, rounding off their training camp before returning to Almería city to continue pre-season preparations.