Malaga CF's Triumphant Start to 2026: A Victory Sealed in Gijon

As the sun set over the revered Estadio El Molinón on the first Sunday of 2026, Malaga CF delivered a performance that will be etched in the annals of their storied history. A 1-3 victory over Real Sporting de Gijón not only marked their first triumph of the year but also underscored their burgeoning momentum under the astute guidance of Coach Juan Francisco Funes.

The match unfolded with the kind of drama that only football can conjure. Malaga, lined up in an audacious two-striker formation—a bold tactical choice by Funes—set the tone early on. The dynamic duo of Chupe and Niño spearheaded the attack, and it was Chupe who broke the deadlock, igniting celebrations among the traveling supporters.

Real Sporting, undeterred, sought to claw their way back into the contest. Their efforts bore fruit in the 81st minute when a contentious handball by Malaga's Einar led to a penalty, confirmed after a tense VAR review. Sporting's Otero stepped up, converting with aplomb to level the scores.

Yet, the game's complexion shifted dramatically just minutes later. In the 85th minute, a reckless challenge by Sporting's Oliván on the lively D. Larrubia resulted in a red card, tilting the scales in Malaga's favor. With the numerical advantage, Malaga pressed forward relentlessly.

As the clock ticked towards full time, the introduction of Lobete proved to be a masterstroke. With his very first touch, Lobete found the back of the net in the 87th minute, sending the Malaga faithful into raptures. The victory was sealed, a third goal emphasizing Malaga's dominance and securing their third consecutive league win.

This away victory was not merely a repetition of history, mirroring the 1-3 result from the 24/25 season in Gijón, but a testament to Malaga's revival under Funes. With 29 points after 20 matches, they now sit comfortably in the upper-mid table of LALIGA HYPERMOTION, eyeing loftier ambitions.

In the grand tapestry of football, such nights are celebrated for their ability to galvanize a team and its supporters. For Malaga CF, the triumph at El Molinón is a chapter in a larger narrative—one of resurgence, grit, and a shared dream of reaching new heights.