Castellon 2-0 Sabadell
International Club Friendly | July 19, 2026

Castellon continued their pre-season preparations with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Catalan neighbours Sabadell in a friendly played on July 19, 2026. The match, staged at Castellon's Estadio Municipal de Castalia, provided the home side with a valuable run-out as they build towards the new season in Spain's Primera Federación.

First Half – Even but Goalless

The opening 45 minutes were evenly contested, with both teams feeling their way into the game after the summer hiatus. Sabadell, playing in a compact 4-4-2, frustrated Castellon's attempts to play through the middle. Castellon's best chance fell to striker Raúl Sánchez, who saw his close-range effort saved by the Sabadell goalkeeper after a clever through ball from midfielder Álex López. At the other end, Sabadell's winger José Manuel nipped past his marker but dragged his shot wide of the far post.

Second Half – Castellon Take Control

The home side emerged with greater intensity after the interval. Manager Rubén Torrecilla introduced fresh legs in attack, and the impact was immediate. In the 58th minute, a neat interchange on the left flank freed left-back Marc Mateu, whose low cross was turned in by substitute forwards Mario García for the opening goal. García, a summer signing from Levante B, showed sharp instincts to get on the end of the delivery.

Castellon doubled their advantage in the 76th minute when a defensive mix-up allowed García to pounce again. Sabadell failed to clear a routine long ball, and the striker nipped in to lob the goalkeeper from 12 yards. The goal effectively killed off any hopes of a Sabadell fightback.

Standout Players

• Mario García – The new arrival announced his presence with two well-taken goals, showing composure and movement in the box.
• Álex López – Dictated play in midfield and created several openings with his passing range.
• Marc Mateu – Provided the assist for the first goal and was a constant outlet down the left.

What It Means

Castellon will be pleased with a clean sheet and a clinical second-half display. The performance of new signing Mario García will be a talking point, as he appears to have adapted quickly to the team's style. Sabadell, who play in the same division, will view the result as a useful learning experience, though their defensive lapses will need addressing ahead of the league campaign.

Both clubs continue their pre-season schedules in the coming days, with Castellon facing another Primera Federación opponent next.