UD Almeria defeats Al-Nassr 3-0 at Energy Horse Stadium

UD Almeria celebrated their victory over Al-Nassr at the Energy Horse Stadium on Thursday, August 8th. The team from the city of Almeria put on a memorable performance against Al-Nassr in a friendly match that left a lasting impression on the fans.

The match was part of the Juan Rojas Memorial Cup, a tournament held in honor of the late local legend Juan Rojas Peña, who made significant contributions both on and off the field to unite the football community in the capital city. With a crowd of 13,936 spectators, the pressure was on for the Red and White team in the friendly match against Al-Nassr.

Despite facing a tough opponent, the Spanish team emerged victorious, showcasing their superiority over the Arab team with standout performances from players like Arnau Puigmal on the right flank, Leo Baptistao, Largie Ramazani, and Luis Suarez. UD Almeria has been on an upward trajectory throughout the season, and their focused, active, and hungry display on the Energy Horse Stadium pitch was a testament to their growth as they approach the end of the league, which concludes next week.

The match saw goals from Baptistao, Suarez, and Montes for UD Almeria, culminating in a thrilling 3-0 victory that was well-deserved for the provincial capital. The win served as a perfect tribute to the Rojas family, with the trophy presentation and fireworks display igniting the spirits of the crowd who clearly appreciated the return of the Memorial Cup. The first goal came from an own goal by Lajami (Al-Nassr) in the 32nd minute after a cross from Baptistao, followed by a goal from Luis Suarez in the 40th minute, and a closing goal from Montes.

The presence of Cristiano Ronaldo at the Energy Horse Stadium added to the excitement of the event, even though he did not play in the match. Ronaldo made an appearance on the field an hour before the game, paying tribute to Juan Rojas and the Memorial Cup, before taking a seat on the bench to support his teammates. After the match, he showed his respect to the fans by leaving the bench and approaching those who were chanting his name from the stands.

In conclusion, the victory of UD Almeria over Al-Nassr in the Juan Rojas Memorial Cup was a memorable and significant moment for the team and the city of Almeria. The match showcased the team’s talent and determination, while also honoring the legacy of a local football hero. The event was a fitting tribute to Juan Rojas and a celebration of the unity and passion that football brings to the community.