Málaga rallies past Las Palmas to set up all-Andalusian promotion final against Almería
A second-half equaliser from Joaquín Muñoz earned Málaga CF a 1-1 draw with UD Las Palmas on Wednesday, sealing a 2-1 aggregate win that sends the Andalusian club into the Segunda División promotion final against UD Almería.
First leg advantage
Málaga travelled to Gran Canaria three days earlier and secured a 0-1 victory, putting them in control of the tie. Las Palmas had failed to score against the Andalusians in three meetings this season.
Jesé strikes early
The match at La Rosaleda started with an early shock for the hosts. After just three minutes, Marvin Park surged down the right and crossed for Jesé Rodríguez, who finished calmly from the penalty spot to level the aggregate score at 1-1 and silence the 30,000-strong crowd.
Tension and goalless spells
Under coach Luis García, Las Palmas managed the game with possession and tactical fouls, frustrating Málaga's young squad. Juan Francisco Funes's side, featuring six academy products in the starting XI, struggled to create clear chances despite controlling territory. Goalkeeper Dinko Horkas preserved Las Palmas's lead with a vital save from Carlos Ruiz "Chupete" in the 57th minute.
- First leg: Málaga wins 0-1 in Las Palmas.
- Jesé Rodríguez scores in the 3rd minute (1-0).
- Dinko Horkas denies Carlos Ruiz 'Chupete'.
- Joaquín Muñoz levels at 1-1 (70') after a scramble.
Joaquín settles the tie
The Andalusian pressure finally told in the 70th minute. Rafita's cross from the left was headed by Adrián Niño, the ball struck the back of Kirian and fell to Joaquín Muñoz, who stabbed home from close range. The goal restored Málaga's aggregate lead and sent La Rosaleda into jubilation.
All-Andalusian final awaits
Málaga will host UD Almería at La Rosaleda on Sunday evening (21:00 CET) for a place in LaLiga EA Sports next season. The club, relegated eight years ago and close to the drop as recently as November, now stands 90 minutes from a return to the top flight.
