UD Almería secured a positive result in the first leg of their promotion play-off semi-final, drawing 1-1 with CD Castellón at SkyFi Castalia stadium. The tie now slightly favours the Rojiblancos, although qualification for the final will be decided on Tuesday when the return leg takes place at the UD Almería Stadium.

CD Castellón enjoyed the better of the first half and took the lead shortly before the break, but UD Almería responded strongly after half-time and deservedly levelled through top scorer Sergio Arribas. More than 500 travelling UD Almería supporters celebrated the equaliser in what proved to be an important result ahead of the decisive second leg.

Head coach Rubi largely kept faith with the side that secured a play-off place on the final day of the regular season, making only two changes. Marc Pubill was replaced by Chirino at right-back, while Jon Morcillo came into the starting XI for Léo Baptistão, who had been recovering from a recent virus. Morcillo’s inclusion on the left wing allowed Embarba to switch to the right, while the rest of the team remained unchanged from the victory over Real Valladolid.

UD Almería found themselves under pressure during an intense opening period as CD Castellón dominated possession and dictated the tempo. The hosts pushed forward with intent, while the visitors focused on maintaining their defensive organisation, knowing that keeping the tie alive for the return leg was crucial.

Despite CD Castellón’s territorial advantage, UD Almería remained relatively comfortable. Andrés Fernández was called into action in the 18th minute, producing an excellent save to deny Cámara after a turnover in possession. Later, Jakobsen fired wide from a promising position as the home side searched for an opener.

The Rojiblancos looked to strike when opportunities arose. Rodrigo Ely headed straight at the keeper from Embarba's free-kick in the 35th minute, before Miguel de la Fuente dragged an effort wide moments later after being set up by Arribas.

Just as the first half appeared destined to end goalless, CD Castellón broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute. Following a corner and a scramble inside the penalty area, Brignani produced a clever backheel finish to make it 1-0.

The Indálicos needed a response and delivered exactly that after the restart. They stepped up their intensity, with Lopy growing into the game and combining effectively with Dzôdić in midfield. Embarba and Arribas also began to exert greater influence, helping UD Almería gain control and push for an equaliser.

The gaffer made his first changes in the 61st minute, introducing Thalys and Nico Melamed for the booked Miguel de la Fuente and Jon Morcillo. The substitutions quickly paid dividends. Following a ball recovery by Dzôdić, Melamed drove forward before releasing Embarba on the flank. The winger delivered an inviting cross and Arribas applied a delicate finish to level the scores in the 66th minute (1–1).

Buoyed by the equaliser, UD Almería continued to search for a winner while remaining mindful of the second leg. CD Castellón increased the pressure during the closing stages, prompting Rubi to reinforce the right side by introducing Chumi and Arnau Puigmal in the 74th minute. The defensive adjustments proved effective as the Rojiblancos successfully contained the hosts and preserved a valuable draw.

The tie remains finely balanced, but UD Almería will head into Tuesday’s return leg with confidence after earning an important result away from home.