1-1: UD Almería U19 A shared the spoils with Saudi Arabian team Future Falcons in Al Abtal Cup
The UDA Academy youth side, who battled it out to a 2-2 against Juventus on the first match of the prestigious tournament, cancelled out the Saudi Arabian side's opener. The next match against Monaco will be held in December
The Al Abtal Cup saw UD Almería Under-19s 'A' coming back from the back again, like it happened against Juventus in their debut in the tournament, against the Saudi Arabian side Future Falcons in Salou (Catalonia). The team led by head coach Zeus Carmona headed to the Tarragona-based town on the occasion of the second Matchday of the prestigious international competition that brings together the best youth talents from all over Europe. The Saudi Arabian outfit demonstrated the remarkable growth of the football development of this Middle East country by taking on current Spanish Cup U19 runners-up with courage and showing great footballing skills.
The match kicked off with a well-structured Future Falcons squad on the pitch. The Saudi Arabian team managed to dominate Carmona's boys for much of the first half. UD Almería U19 'A' presented quite a few new faces in the starting XI with respect to what has been the usual line-up in their regular league, Division de Honor. The first blow of the match was soon delivered by Future Falcons. A quick good play at the first touch surprised the Rojiblancos' defence that could see them trailing in the early stages of the game.
The Spaniards reaction was immediate as they stepped up a gear, although without much success. The enormous defensive effort at the hands of the hosts blocked the youthful Indálicos' attempts to create dangerous situations.
The second half was another story. The team-talk given during half-time clearly inspired the UD Almería youth team. Over the first 20 minutes after the restart, more crosses where delivered into the Future Falcons' box than in the entire opening half. The talented Rojiblancos had gained momentum and José Ismael was the clearest attacking threat, however the Future Falcons managed the dying embers effectively thanks to the refresh players. In fact, they were too close to doubling their lead but the woodwork denied the Saudi Arabian side.
After the Future Falcons were bossing for a while, UD Almería U19 'A' found the equaliser. Padilla's cross hit the crossbar, a loose ball within the area was volleyed by Gallardo, who although did not find the back of the net, José Ismael booted emphatically from 12 yards to level it up.
Full-time: 1-1
The next Al Albal Cup tie against Monaco takes place in December.
