'Six-seven' is a viral phenomenon and an intentionally ambiguous expression that has taken social media by storm. But when it comes to UD Almería, there is no room for ambiguity. The Rojiblancos are not about doing more or less, but about delivering more and more. Their 6th consecutive win and 7th victory in just 9 league games was emphatic. García Pimienta’s men swept CD Leganés aside with a flawless second-half display, inspired by an unstoppable Miguel de la Fuente.

First half

UD Almería took control of possession from the opening whistle and would not relinquish it until half-time. They had the ball, moved it intelligently and built their attacks with purpose, but struggled to turn their dominance into clear-cut chances against Luca Zidane’s goal. It was relentless pressure that ultimately failed to produce anything of real substance. There were promising moments, including Arribas’ effort from the edge of the box in the 11th minute, but his shot lacked the necessary curl and failed to find the target.

The hosts enjoyed long spells of possession, but their dominance was largely toothless against guests who tucked deep in their defensive shell. García Pimienta’s men spent most of the half in the opposition’s half, with 4 corners underlining their determination to break the deadlock. The 4th, around the half-hour mark, presented Thalys with an opportunity as the ball dropped into the 6-yard box. However, his header lacked power and went straight into the hands of the CD Leganés keeper.

The Brazilian striker came close again just before the break, but once more failed to make the most of a high delivery. A superb combination through the middle between Arribas and Quim opened up the play before Chirino delivered a cross from the right flank. The ball had height but lacked pace and Thalys once again tried to connect with a header, only to be undone by the lack of power on the delivery. Even the best intentions need the right spark.

The status quo remained at the UD Almería Stadium at half-time, with the home crowd unaware of what was about to unfold after the restart.

Second half 

Head coach Xavier García Pimienta made his move at the break, bringing Miguel de la Fuente back into action after the striker had been sidelined by a virus during the week. The gaffer played his trump card and just 6 minutes later, it had paid off handsomely. He called upon a former CD Leganés player and there is always something special about a former player facing his old club.

A high press and a turnover from Dzôdić set the move in motion. The ball was quickly played into the path of a striker who knows exactly where the goal is, and Miguel needed no second invitation. A swift decision and a clinical finish across goal sent the ball crashing into the net. Miguel de la Fuente had now scored on 3 consecutive Matchdays and once again he had broken the deadlock and blown the game wide open (1-0). A former player always has a point to prove and the Pepineros were about to feel the full force of it.

De la Fuente struck again just 5 minutes later to make it 2-0, haunting his former club and underlining his status as UD Almería’s match-winner. Cipenga delivered a cross from the left, and De la Fuente produced a superb finish to send the ball into the back of the net. Perfect neck movement, immaculate timing and a clinical header. It was his 5th goal of the season, matching the five he managed in half a season last term. Miguel’s goalscoring fever had CD Leganés shaking.

Before the visitors had time to recover,  the Rojiblancos made it 3-0 and put the result beyond doubt with a rapid counterattack led by Quim and finished off by Chirino. De la Fuente had once again set things in motion with another turnover. The clock had just reached the hour mark and UD Almería needed only three touches to reach the opposition box. Quim then laid the ball on a plate for his full-back, delivering a lesson for every young footballer learning the game: always keep your head up!

From there until the final whistle, UD Almería continued to serve up different variations of the same attacking threat. Cipenga produced moments of flair, Arribas kept posing questions and the afternoon brought a special milestone as Léo Baptistão made his 150th appearance for UD Almería. It was all orchestrated by Dzôdić, who conducted proceedings in midfield like a pianist at a gala dinner.

The Sons of the Desert saw out the game with another clean sheet, 3 more points and a 6th consecutive victory to savour.

UD Almería 3-0 CD Leganés

Goals: Miguel de la Fuente (51', 56'), Daijiro Chirino (60').

Competition: LaLiga Hypermotion •  Matchday 9

Venue: UD Almería Stadium