UD Almería managed to secure a crucial 2-1 win over FC Andorra in a hard-fought encounter, a much-needed victory after a tough run of form that included three consecutive games without a win. The win came at a critical time, with the team battling both injuries and mounting pressure as the 2025 season nears its conclusion. Sergio Arribas starred with a brace, while Andrés Fernández made key saves to keep the visitors ahead.

Rubi opted for a 4-3-3 formation, reinforcing the midfield with Gui Guedes, Lopy and Dzôdić to add both physicality and creativity to the centre. The defence remained mostly unchanged, with Alex Muñoz starting at left-back and the attack consisting of Soko, Arribas and Embarba. As expected, FC Andorra came out with intensity, pressing high and creating chances early on, including a notable opportunity in the 10th minute that Andrés Fernández was quick to deny.

UD Almería slowly regained control as the match progressed, with Soko coming close on two occasions in the 33rd and 42nd minutes and Arribas also testing the FC Andorra keeper, Áron Yaakobishvili, before half-time. Despite FC Andorra’s strong start, the 19-year-old Hungarian goalkeeper proved to be a standout figure, pulling off a number of impressive saves to keep his side in the game.

The first half ended on a sour note for the guests, however, as Federico Bonini had to leave the pitch due to injury, with UD Almería 'B' youngster Pedro Fidel replacing him in defence.

The second half saw FC Andorra regain some momentum, with a dangerous shot from Carrique on 55 minutes hitting the post and creating a nervous moment for UD Almería. Rubi responded by making substitutions, bringing on Thalys for Soko and Arnau Puigmal for Gui Guedes, switching to a 4-2-3-1 formation. This tactical shift allowed the visitors to regain control and eventually break the deadlock.

In the 64th minute, Arribas found the net after a well-timed pass courtesy from Dzôdić, calmly finishing past Yaakobishvili to give UD Almería a 1-0 lead. Just 12 minutes later, Arribas doubled his tally, capitalising on a rebound from the Hungarian goalie to double their lead 2-0.

FC Andorra did pull one back in stoppage time through Nieto, but it was too late to mount a serious challenge and the Rojiblancos held on to seal the 2-1 win.

This victory provides a much-needed morale boost for UD Almería, who have been struggling with injuries and inconsistent form in recent weeks. With key players missing and the pressure mounting, the team’s ability to dig deep and secure all 3 points against a determined FC Andorra side will give them renewed confidence heading into the final stretch of the first half of the season.