Levante kicked off their 2026–27 preseason with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over CD Leganés in an International Club Friendly played on 12 July 2026. The match, held at Levante's training complex, saw the Primera División side edge out the Segunda División visitors thanks to a well-taken second-half winner. Both managers used the opportunity to test new arrivals and rotate squad members in a competitive but controlled atmosphere.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Levante controlled possession and pressed high, seeking to impose their rhythm on the game. Leganés, disciplined and compact in defence, looked to hit on the counter‑attack. The first half remained goalless despite several promising crosses from the hosts. Levante's goalkeeper made a sharp save from a Leganés free‑kick just before the break, keeping the score level.

Key Moments

• 55th minute – Levante take the lead: A slick passing move through the midfield released the right‑back, whose low cross was turned in from close range by a forward making a late run. 1–0.
• 72nd minute – Leganés equalise: A defensive lapse allowed a long ball to find the Leganés striker, who calmly slotted past the advancing Levante goalkeeper. 1–1.
• 81st minute – Levante win it: A well‑worked corner caught the Leganés defence napping. The ball was headed back across goal and a Levante substitute powered a header into the net. 2–1.

Tactical Story

Levante lined up in a fluid 4‑3‑3, with full‑backs pushing high to create overloads in wide areas. Leganés responded with a compact 4‑4‑2, prioritising defensive solidity and quick transitions. The hosts’ patience eventually paid off after the break, as they increased the tempo and forced errors from the Leganés backline. The equaliser exposed Levante’s momentary lack of concentration, but their ability to regroup and respond within ten minutes highlighted the fitness levels being built in pre‑season.

Standout Players

• Levante's goalscorer (2nd goal): The substitute forward changed the game with his movement and aerial threat, and was a constant nuisance for the Leganés defenders.
• Leganés goalkeeper: Made several important saves in the first half and could do little about either goal. His distribution also set up the counter that led to Leganés’ equaliser.

Season Impact

While friendly results are not definitive, this win gives Levante early momentum as they build towards the new Primera División campaign. Head coach highlighted the importance of “competitive minutes” and praised the squad’s reaction after conceding. For Leganés, the performance showed resilience against a higher‑division opponent, and the team will take encouragement from the defensive organisation shown for large stretches of the game.