UD Melilla wrapped up their pre-season preparations with an impressive 3–1 away win over CD Rincon in an international club friendly on August 23. The match, which kicked off at the unusual late hour of 01:30 local time, gave both coaching staffs a valuable opportunity to test rotations, fitness levels, and tactical ideas ahead of the coming competitive season.

Melilla start bright and take control

The visitors made their quality count early. Playing with fluid attacking movement, Melilla carved open the CD Rincon defence within the opening 20 minutes to take a deserved lead. A quick exchange on the edge of the box resulted in a first-time finish that gave the Rincon goalkeeper no chance.

Rincon, who were playing in front of their own supporters, tried to respond with direct running down the wings. Their pressure earned several corners, but Melilla's backline remained organised. Just before halftime, Melilla doubled their advantage after winning the ball high up the pitch and finishing decisively on the counter-attack, giving themselves a comfortable cushion at the interval.

Second-half response and a late strike

The hosts came out with greater intensity after the break and pulled a goal back shortly after the hour mark. A misplaced pass in Melilla's midfield was punished with a swift move that ended with a powerful strike from inside the area. The goal gave Rincon a lift, but Melilla reasserted their control almost immediately.

Substitutes injected fresh energy into the away side, and in the final ten minutes they sealed the result with a well-executed set piece. A curling free kick was headed across goal and turned in from close range to make it 3–1. The remainder of the match was played out at a controlled tempo, with both sides making full use of their benches.

Friendly verdict

For UD Melilla, this friendly was an encouraging sign of attacking production and squad depth. For CD Rincon, the match highlighted several positive moments in possession but also areas to tighten up defensively before competitive action begins. In the context of pre-season football, the result matters less than the sharpness gained, but Melilla will still travel home satisfied with their performance.

• Final score: CD Rincon 1 – 3 UD Melilla
• Competition: International Club Friendly
• Date: August 23, 2026
• Key theme: Pre-season testing with extensive rotations and a clear attacking display from UD Melilla.