CDFC La Calzada secured a hard-fought 1-0 away win at Cenicero in the Tercera División RFEF Group 16, with a late goal settling a tightly contested match. In a game of few clear chances, La Calzada’s patience and tactical discipline proved decisive as Cenicero’s resistance was finally broken in the closing stages.

Match overview

The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides prioritising defensive solidity. Cenicero sat compact and looked to threaten on the break, while La Calzada controlled possession without finding a way through a well-organised back line. The visitors’ best opportunity came from a free-kick in the 24th minute, but the Cenicero goalkeeper produced a strong save to keep the score level.

Cenicero nearly took the lead against the run of play in the 51st minute when a low shot struck the post. That moment sparked La Calzada into a more urgent approach, and the visitors began to commit more bodies forward. The breakthrough arrived in the 79th minute when Rubén Tejada arrived at the back post to convert a deep cross, rewarding La Calzada for their persistent pressure.

Cenicero pushed for an equaliser in the final ten minutes and forced a series of corners, but La Calzada defended resolutely and managed the game well in stoppage time.

Key moments

• 24’ — Cenicero’s goalkeeper saves a dangerous La Calzada free-kick.
• 51’ — Cenicero hit the post with a low effort.
• 79’ — Rubén Tejada scores the winning goal at the back post.
• 90+3’ — La Calzada clear a late corner to secure the three points.

Tactical story

La Calzada’s approach was built on control and patience. They dominated possession but initially struggled to break down Cenicero’s compact defensive block. The introduction of fresh legs from the bench added energy in the final third, and the visitors’ willingness to switch play from side to side eventually created the space for the winning goal.

Cenicero’s game plan was clear: stay compact, deny central spaces, and counter through quick transitions. It nearly worked, especially when they hit the post early in the second half. However, their inability to keep the ball for sustained periods meant they were forced deeper and deeper as the match wore on, and the late goal was a fair reflection of La Calzada’s territorial advantage.

Standout performers

Rubén Tejada will take the headlines for his match-winning goal, but La Calzada’s goalkeeper deserved credit for two important first-half saves. The visitors’ midfield also controlled the rhythm of the game, ensuring Cenicero were rarely able to build momentum. For Cenicero, the centre-back pairing produced a brave display, while their goalkeeper kept them in the contest until the closing minutes.

What it means

The victory is a valuable one for La Calzada, who showed the kind of resilience needed to grind out results on difficult away trips. For Cenicero, it is a narrow defeat that will hurt, but their defensive organisation suggests they can compete in the group. In a division where fine margins decide promotion and relegation battles, La Calzada’s late winner could prove an important moment in their season.