Málaga CF endured a tough 3-0 defeat against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu this weekend, a result that leaves the blue-and-white team in a difficult position early in the LaLiga EA Sports season. According to the analysis published by Sport.es, based on player ratings from the newspaper La Opinión de Málaga, manager Funes's side was clearly outplayed in the first half, conceding all three goals between the 19th and 30th minutes.
Who stood out and who struggled for Málaga CF?
The collective performance of Málaga CF in Madrid left more shadows than light, but there were exceptions. The top-rated player with an 8 was Rafita, whose work was the only genuinely positive note on a difficult pitch. At the opposite end was defender Galilea, who received the lowest grade, a 3. The La Opinión de Málaga report notes that Galilea had direct responsibility for Real Madrid's first and third goals, highlighting a very difficult day at the back.
Other players like Puga, Recio, Izan Merino, Larrubia, Pablo Martínez, Juan Cruz, and Haitam earned a bare pass, a 5. Meanwhile, names like Alfonso Herrero, Rafa Rodríguez, Dotor, Joaquín, Chupe, and Salinas scored a 4. Rafa Rodríguez also had a clear chance in the first half that hit the post. Manager Funes made changes, substituting Rafa Rodríguez at halftime and bringing on Ramón in the 87th minute, who received a yellow card.
What does this season start mean for the team?
With this result, Málaga CF's record after the first three matchdays is one draw and two losses. This run places the team in the relegation zone, a situation that demands an immediate reaction. The team now faces a period of reflection and work to correct its course. The next opportunity to earn points will be at home against Athletic Club on November 29th, a match already looming as vital in the calendar that fans can check on our fixtures page.
What were the lineup novelties?
The match at the Bernabéu also served to see Pablo Martínez make his debut for Málaga CF. The player, who came on in the second half, earned a rating of 5 in his first official appearance. For his part, Juan Cruz also came close to scoring in one of the few dangerous chances created by the visitors. The good level shown by Rafita in his position could, according to the analysis, complicate Salinas's options for finding minutes in the team in the short term. To follow the squad's evolution, supporters have updated information available in our squad section.
The road ahead is long, but the urgency is clear. The defeat in Madrid leaves a bitter taste and reinforces the need to improve quickly in several aspects of play. The current standings, which can be followed on standings, reflect the difficulty of the start. The team must find the defensive solidity and greater offensive punch that will allow them to climb out of the bottom part of the table as soon as possible.
