Javier Pintado Núñez
Mariño:
Returned to the starting lineup due to Raúl Lizoain’s discomfort. He had little work in the first half, though he did palm away a shot from Iván Calero that ended up hitting his woodwork. His absence wasn’t felt; he gave his team security and was reliable in aerial situations. He was the standout performer for his side with key interventions in the second half.
Lorenzo Aguado:
Won the penalty that Jefté converted after a good run down the right flank. Solid in defense and a constant threat going forward.
Pepe Sánchez:
Regained his starting spot after several weeks injured. He looked sharp and organized the defense, just as he has all season. The team defends much better when the Linares-born player is on the pitch.
Lluís López:
Continues to grow with every match. He combined well with Pepe and kept Chacón and Sobrino in check.
Carlos Neva:
Had less work than in previous games; he was responsible for launching long balls from his flank, targeting Lorenzo Aguado.
Jogo:
Played in a deeper role compared to Andorra, where he scored the winner. He didn’t push too far forward in attack but was solid defensively and stayed focused. In the second half, he was seen closer to the opponent’s area and could have added to his goal tally. He was replaced by Bernabéu in the 65th minute.
Martín Fernández:
The Uruguayan performed well in building play from the back and in midfield cover. He received the ball, turned, offered solutions, and brought balance. He played the full 90 minutes without mistakes and was very present on the field.
San Bartolomé:
Comfortable in a position that suits him better, near the box with attacking intent. A leader in pressing and with great physical effort, he started the move that led to the penalty scored by Jefté. Good second half launching counterattacks until he was substituted by Álex Rubio in the 65th minute.
Ale Meléndez:
Played in a more advanced role than in recent matches. He was in line with San Bartolomé, pressing high against Cultural’s buildup.
Pacheco:
One of the most comfortable games for Albacete’s number 6. He controlled the midfield and complemented Meléndez and San Bartolomé well. Alberto kept him on for the entire match, and he ended up closing passing lanes.
Jefté Betancor:
As the sole attacking reference, he had the first two chances of the game, the clearest being a one-on-one he wasted against Badía. The third time was the charm with a penalty goal, his 15th of the season for the Canary Islander. He could have sealed the match with a header; it was a good performance from him.
Substitutions
Bernabéu:
Electric in both defense and attack, he gave the team fresh air after Jogo’s exit. He provoked a red card.
Álex Rubio:
Left isolated as the lone striker, he played one-touch passes and attempted several shots without success.
Javi Moreno:
Solid in the minutes he played, he made no mistakes and cleared every ball that came his way.
Capi:
Despite his limited time on the pitch, he sealed the match with a fine goal inside the box. A goal that celebrates his renewal with the club from La Mancha until 2029.
Gámez:
Fierce competition with Aguado at right-back; every minute they both play fuels the healthy rivalry they’ve had all season.
