5-2: Another setback for UD Almería in LaLiga EA Sports
The Rojiblancos began taking the lead 0-2 with a spirited performance, however before half-time, Girona FC managed to come back from behind in just 6 minutes
UD Almería started the match on the right foot very eager to register their first W of the 2023/24 season. As a result of this spirited performance, the score was 0-2 before first half an hour mark with Léo Baptistão playing a leading role up front. The Rojiblancos were doing everything right, effective passing and holding on in defence, however, in a matter of 6 minutes, the Catalans staged an impressive comeback to make it 3-2.
In the second half, Sávio and Stuani extended their side's lead to 5-2, and thus UD Almería suffering another severe setback in LaLiga EA Sports. Mr Garitano's first Starting XI was pick out with many changes compared to the previous line-ups. The new man at the helm of the team let Fernando Martínez regain his starting spot between the sticks, who made his debut this campaign; In defence, Pozo, César Montes, Kaiky and Centelles (these last two replacing injured Edgar and Akieme), in the midfield, Baba and Lopy, and high up the pitch, Robertone, who returned after his injury, Embarba and Arribas, with Léo Baptistão playing as a No.9 A new system to take on one of the teams in the best form this term as Mr Garitano said at his pre-Girona press conference.
The first half of the match began with UD Almería creating threating situations and with every intention of taking the lead early on the scoreboard and they did so by being brave and putting pressure on their rivals. In the 2nd minute, Léo Baptistão, with the help of Gazzaniga, opened the scoring 0-1 against a very dangerous rival who was looking for the lead. After this opener, Girona FC began to create their chances to level things up, however, to the joy of the Indálicos, the second goal would arrive; again Léo Baptistão, who took advantage of a loose ball within the area after a shot taken by Embarba that was rejected by the home goalie, made it 0-2. What a brace!
In a matter of 6 minutes, the Rojiblancos saw the Catalan outfit come back from behind 3-2, before half-time. Iván Martín scored their first goal in a one-on-one against keeper Fernando in the 37th minute, shortly after the home team's tie would come, Dovbyk slotted home 39 minutes in, and the 3-2 would also be netted by the Ukrainian striker, in the 43rd minute. UD Almería let their 0-2 lead slip away in the blink of an eye.
In the second half, Girona FC opponents Sávio and Stuani, would extend their lead until the final 5-2 against a discouraged UD Almería, and that head coach Gaizka Garitano started this period with three centre-backs to make sure of a solid defence, yet it could not be achieved due to the weaknesses of UD Almería and the potential of the rivals from Catalonia.