4-2: An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth

UD Almería applied the Law of Retaliation to AD Ceuta FC, securing a win built largely on an opening half that was nothing short of sensational. All the pressure placed on the Rojiblancos was multiplied exponentially as they took the game to their opponents, firmly taking control of the scoreline, which would later shift further in their favour. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. What went wrong there, was fixed here.

From Storm Kristin to a UD Almería Cyclone. The whirlwind had constant and powerful gusts that relentlessly battered AD Ceuta FC’s goal during 45 minutes of hellish football. In just over 20 minutes, the team led by Rubi had a 2-goal lead and an overwhelming presence on the pitch. With high pressing, trademark UD Almería football and razor-sharp rebellion, the Rojiblancos did not even let the Caballa team take the kick-off.

The seeds were sown and soon after, they began to bear fruit. After numerous corner-kicks without the visitors even touching the ball over the first 15 minutes, Arribas-Horta-Morcillo delivered the 1-0 with a collective move of pure football that ended with a handball by Anuar within the box. From the penalty spot, Sergio Arribas opened the scoring, already with 12 goals to his name this season and still the second-division top scorer, despite not being a centre-forward. He might be running out of celebrations but his assists are far from finished.

Just 5 minutes after scoring, the Madrid-born provided another one. While the initial move was started by Baptistão, it was Arribas who put it on a plate for the Brazilian to finish. With a precise and clinical strike from right to left, Baptistão continues to add to his extensive career of great hits. It was the 23rd minute and UD Almería were bossing the game (2-0).

The presence of Horta in midfield, spinning like a satellite around the ball, allowed the Indálicos to play quick, precise football that constantly fed the attacking players. Miguel de la Fuente was a constant threat, punishing AD Ceuta’ FCs poor ball distribution and playing a key role in this aggressive version of the Rojiblancos.

Never allowing the opposition to breathe, always in the guests' half and with Vallejo’s goal under siege, the home side were relentless. They almost got a fourth and a fifth, but before the break, in injury time, the Ceutís managed to pull one back with a stunning strike courtesy from Kuki Zalazar, who rifled the ball in from over 32 yards. A true masterpiece, showing that his dad, José Luis Zalazar, passed on more than just the surname. A wonder goal to make it 3-1 at the break and there was nothing to blame UD Almería for.

Second Half

The Ceuta outfit managed to find some life after the restart, following the CPR administered by Zalazar’s amazing goal. UD Almería began to struggle with their defensive transitions, suffering the physical consequences of a first half where they had poured every ounce of energy into pressing their opponents. With both teams making substitutions and the game seemingly decided, AD Ceuta FC pushed forward, albeit without creating too many chances.

In a few scrappy moments, the wildest part of the game was reached with 2 penalties in each box and 2 more goals lighting up the scoreboard. It was the Ceutís who scored next, as Marcos Fernández made it 3-2, adding a touch of spice to what had already been a fiery encounter. For 6 minutes, UD Almería tested themselves, ensuring there would be no surprise at their Stadium. The ghosts were banished when Arnau Puigmal went on a run, won a penalty and Embarba stepped up to score the third penalty of the match, sealing the 4-2 win.

The week ends with a bright, sunny result. January’s slump is over and February looks promising. The noise is back to a normal level for now. It is just 1 win after 3 winless games.