Almeria edged Cadiz CF 3-2 in a compelling Andalucian derby at the Power Horse Stadium, producing one of the most entertaining matches of the early Segunda División season. With both sides desperate to begin their promotion campaigns with momentum, the fixture delivered drama, quick transitions, and a flurry of goals that kept the crowd on edge until the final whistle.

Match overview

From the first minute, Almeria showed why they are considered one of the promotion favourites, pressing high and committing bodies forward. Cadiz, who have plenty of quality in their own squad, were not content to sit back and absorb pressure. The early exchanges were open, with both goalkeepers forced into important saves during a frantic opening period.

Almeria took the lead midway through the first half with a well-worked move that ended with a composed finish from inside the box. Cadiz responded almost immediately, equalising through a clever set-piece routine that caught the home defence off guard. The game became a genuine tactical battle after the interval, with Almeria regaining the lead from a rapid counter-attack before adding a third goal to create what looked like a comfortable cushion.

Key moments

• Almeria’s first goal: A precise through ball split the Cadiz back line and left the striker with a one-on-one opportunity that he finished cleanly.
• Cadiz equaliser: A well-delivered free kick was headed back across goal and bundled in at the far post to restore parity.
• The winning run: Almeria struck twice in quick succession midway through the second half, turning the match in their favour when Cadiz were pushing forward in search of a second.
• A tense finish: Cadiz pulled a goal back late on and threw everyone forward in stoppage time, but Almeria held on to claim the three points.

Tactical story

Almeria’s attacking full-backs were central to the victory. They stretched Cadiz’s shape and created overloads in wide areas, allowing the home side to progress the ball into dangerous zones quickly. Cadiz looked most threatening from dead-ball situations and when they bypassed midfield with direct passes into the final third. The game was defined by those two approaches, and on the night Almeria’s variety in attack made the difference.

Season impact

For Almeria, the win provides an important early-season statement in the Segunda División. Matches of this intensity against another former La Liga club carry extra significance, and the confidence gained from a hard-fought victory could prove useful in the long promotion race. Cadiz will be frustrated by the nature of the defeat, but their second-half response showed enough character to suggest they will improve as the campaign develops.