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Match Report: 1-1 draw with Málaga CF
A late goal prevents an RCD Espanyol win
RCD Espanyol's LaLiga Matchday 8 game with Málaga CF ended in a draw away at La Rosaleda. Bryan Zaragoza opened the scoring for Los Pericos in the first half, with the hosts scoring in the closing moments to deny a win for Manolo González' men.
Twenty-one days after their last league game, due to the new international break format, there was a real desire to get back to work -especially with the most recent result having been a defeat at the hands of Elche CF.
Up against RCD Espanyol were a Málaga side returning to the top flight this season.
The hosts had the first chance, but Ángel Fortuño pulled off a fine save to deny Málaga’s opening opportunity. The goalkeeper was making his first appearance of the 2026/27 season, in a change between the sticks.
Almost immediately, Bryan Zaragoza went on a slaloming run along the edge of the penalty area and beat opposition goalkeeper Herrero with a powerful, precise shot to make it 0–1.
Los Pericos could easily have extended their lead shortly after, but a defender cleared Roberto Fernández’ acrobatic attempt off the line just as it was about to go in.
Minutes later, a double chance for Roberto and Javi Hernández was also thwarted by the defence, deflecting the ball out for a corner with the goalkeeper already beaten.
A moment of controversy arose when Puga grabbed Zaragoza just as he was heading through on goal; the referee deemed it not worthy of a booking, which would have been a second yellow card for Puga.
Just before halftime, Roberto tried his luck again, but his shot ricocheted off two defenders in quick succession.
The second half began in similar style. Omar El Hilali made a strong run into the box, but his cutback to Edu Expósito went narrowly over the bar.
A long-range free-kick from Málaga's Martínez struck the crossbar, serving as a warning that the home side were still in the game.
Roberto had another chance before being substituted, but Herrero hurriedly cleared the ball with his foot.
Just as the match was drawing to a close, a counterattack by the home side produced an equaliser, meaning the points were shared and RCD Espanyol were left frustrated.