0-1: Almería come back to LaLiga with an important victory
The Rojiblancos close in on automatic promotion spots thanks to a penalty goal from Darwin. Pulsating game played at Carlos Belmonte
UD Almería returned to competition after the global health emergency and did so with an important victory that brings them closer to the automatic promotion spots to the First Division. José María Gutiérrez's side knew how to play in a pulsating and intense match sealing victory with a penalty goal scored by Darwin Núñez just before the break. In the second-half, the team were dominating to end up winning the three points.
The match started with a lot of pace, despite almost 3 months without playing. UD Almería dominated during the first twenty minutes regarding their presence on the opposing team’s half of the pitch. Nevertheless, the first opportunity would have gained prominence from the home team. Fernando had to make an effort to save a potential goal from Manu Fuster in the 23rd minute.
The Manchegos, who had a lot at stake, made the encounter with Almeria stand out for the duels over controlling midfield. In those, our player’s boss made an inevitable substitution with Juan Muñoz on for Lazo, as the latter got injured. The Utrera-born player was placed next to Darwin. When both forwards team up there is usually stunning goals involved.
Although in the 43rd minute Eddy Wild certainly put Fernando to the test, again making a superb stop preventing Albacete from going ahead. The Rojiblancos appeared to be in full control and managed to make it 0-1 just before half-time. It started well for Almeria as they were awarded a penalty, after consulting with the VAR, when an opponent handled the ball after a brilliant Almeria’s cross from the wing. Darwin Núñez slotted his penalty into the net giving his team the lead.
At the beginning of the second-half, José María Gutiérrez was forced to make another substitution because Vada was feeling discomfort during the game, so Aguza took over the Argentinian.
Albacete enjoyed creating some chances after the restart. However, the clearest opportunity during the second period could have been found by Darwin Núñez, who received a great pass from his team-mate Juan Muñoz. Unfortunately, Tomeu Nadal responded with a great save to deny the Uruguayan.
As time went by, the balance was disappearing and UD Almería would take advantage of more space for their attacking men races. In any case, the competitive inactivity of these three months was clearly noticeable and prevented the Rojiblancos from creating danger in the last minutes of play.
The final whistle sealed the 0-1 victory over Albacete that brings Almeria closer to the automatic promotion places, which are currently two points away. José María Gutiérrez's squad will have to face a demanding and hectic week with the visit of Las Palmas on Wednesday, and travelling to Zaragoza on Saturday.