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First Team

3-2: UD Almería shine in final pre-season victory over star-studded Al-Nassr FC

The Rojiblancos showcase attacking flair as they outplay Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. in an action-packed summer clash. Arribas and Embarba (2) scored the goals. CR7 also grabbed a brace. 12,821 supporters. Almería-born urban music artist RVFV performed at half-time

UD Almería wrapped up their pre-season campaign in style, securing a thrilling 3-2 victory over Saudi giants Al-Nassr FC in their final friendly match. Despite facing a star-studded lineup including Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Félix and Iñigo Martínez, the Rojiblancos demonstrated their offensive potential and tactical cohesion, providing a promising outlook ahead of the new season.

The showdown, played in front of 12,821 cheering supporters at the UD Almería Stadium, featured a solid performance from the home side, who were more than a match for their Saudi Arabian opponents. With head coach Rubi rotating his squad and testing different tactical set-ups, the team looked sharp and purposeful.

In the backline, the gaffer experimented with Alex Muñoz as a centre-back, pairing him with Chumi. The full-backs, Marcos Luna and Centelles, held their ground, while Lopy and Selvi anchored the midfield. The attacking quartet consisted of Baptistao and Embarba on the wings, with Arribas orchestrating the play in the centre and Lázaro leading the line as the No. 9. Andrés Fernández stood strong between the sticks.

UD Almería came out of the blocks quickly, with the opener coming in the 6th minute. Embarba won the ball back in midfield and fed Leo Baptistao, whose assist allowed Arribas to calmly slot the ball past Al-Nassr FC's keeper. Despite hitting the post and crossbar in the opening 15 minutes, UD Almería continued to press and Cristiano Ronaldo equalised in the 17th minute after a brilliant team move.

UD Almería were far from passive. The first half was filled with end-to-end action, with both sides creating their chances. With 39 minutes on the clock, Cristiano Ronaldo converted a penalty to give Al-Nassr FC a 2-1 lead, but Embarba leveled things up just before the break with a stunning long-range effort from about 38 yards, catching the Saudi keeper off guard (2-2). All square at half-time.

After the interval, CR7's departure and numerous substitutions on both sides led to a more fragmented second half. UD Almería made several changes, with Bonini making his UD Almería debut in the 62nd minute, replacing Alex Muñoz. Other substitutes included Horta for Gui Guedes, Arnau for Leo Baptistao, and Soko replacing Lázaro. In the 71st minute, more changes saw Perovic, Chirino, and Nico Melamed come on for Embarba, Marcos Luna and Arribas, respectively.

It was during this phase that the Indálicos sealed the win. A powerful shot from Embarba, set up by an excellent cross from Marcos Luna and a perfect assist from Arribas, put the home side ahead 3-2. Despite a late surge from Al-Nassr FC who pushed for a leveller, UD Almería held firm, with a brilliant save denying Chumi’s header from a corner.

As the final whistle blew, UD Almería could look back at a highly promising pre-season. Although the preparation match ended with a few defensive lapses, the attacking fluidity and strong team play were clear indicators of the progress made under Rubi.

The Indálicos will head into the regular season with confidence, knowing that they have the attacking potential and tactical discipline to compete at the highest level.

Once inicial del Almería
Arribas marcó muy pronto el 1-0, en el minuto 6
Lázaro se topó con el poste y con el larguero
Lopy estuvo a un excelente nivel
Alex Muñoz jugó de central junto a Chumi
Chumi vigila a Cristiano Ronaldo
RVFV actuó en el descanso del partido
Embarba marcó al final de la primera parte y al inicio de la segunda
Bonini hizo su debut como rojiblanco
Horta conduce el balón junto a Arnau; ambos salieron en el segundo tiempo