Raul Garcia channels Aduriz at La Rosaleda

High intensity in a game of few chances

When the two teams met earlier in the season, it finished goalless and the first half of this encounter continued the trend, although it was peppered with intensity and attacking intent. Respect between both clubs and the game plans chosen by Javi Gracia and Ernesto Valverde meant that the first and only goal of the game would not come until after the interval.

Juanpi pulls the strings once again

It is no coincidence that the Venezuelan has become a mainstay in the Malaga CF side. Juanpi Añor was once again the danger man whose direct style and playmaking ability caused serious problems for the Athletic Club defence.

Superb shotstopping  

With two top goalkeepers on the pitch, it was a matter of time until both made outstanding stops. Gorka Iraizoz came out on top in two one-on-one situations in the early stages, initially against Juanpi and subsequently against Chory Castro, which could have changed the game. Mexican Guillermo Ochoa also made two key interventions to ensure the home side reached the break with a clean sheet intact. Iraizoz would go on to keep up his fine form in the second half with two more crucial stops.  

Raul Garcia channels Aduriz

With the Athletic number 20 ruled out through injury, Raul Garcia popped up with a header in true Aduriz style to put the Basque outfit into the lead from a corner in the 53rd minute. It would prove to be the winner and see the club jump up to fifth in the Liga BBVA.

Malaga's goalscoring home run comes to an end

The home side's run of scoring in nine consecutive games at La Rosaleda came to an end, as Charles Diaz spurned the last and best opportunity with time running out when his shot went off target from a one-on-one with the Basque goalkeeper and Athletic clinched all three points.