Castilla’s impressive run continues, and they’re now firmly in play-off contention for ascent. With their strikers not finding the back of the net, it was the defense that stole the show, earning them the nickname “Killers.” Valdepeñas and Jacobo Ramón were the standout players, with the former scoring a magnificent header and the latter netting a quality goal. This victory against Alcorcón showcases the solidity that Raúl has instilled in the team, with an almost impenetrable block of players who are executing their tactics to perfection both on and off the ball.
The result is a remarkable streak of five wins and two draws in their last seven games, propelling them to fifth place in the provisional standings. The two goals in the first half were enough to seal the deal for Castilla, with Valdepeñas opening the scoring with a precise header from a corner kick executed by David Jiménez. Jacobo Ramón added the second goal in the 38th minute, calmly finishing a side center from the field. This goal came shortly after he had sparked some concern with a left adductor issue, which would eventually force him to be substituted in the second half.
Change of stage and Alcorcón touches the tie
A goal from Borja Alonso in the 60th minute changed the complexion of the game, giving Alcorcón a glimmer of hope. The visitors amassed numerous scoring opportunities in the ensuing minutes, but Castilla’s defense held firm. Mario Rivas was expeditious in his cuts, while Mario de Luis was in superb form, stopping everything that came his way to keep Castilla ahead on the scoreboard. The red card shown to Samu 20 minutes from the end halted Alcorcón’s momentum, giving Castilla a much-needed breather. Although Pablo Álvarez’s team continued to push for a point, it was not to be.
Castilla technical record 2-1 Alcorcón
The starting lineups for the match were as follows: Real Madrid Castilla (5-2-3) featured Mario de Luis in goal, with David Jiménez, Mario Rivas, Jacobo Ramón, Ribes, and Valdepeñas in defense. Campos, Chema Andrés, Víctor Muñoz, Gonzalo, and Borja Alonso made up the rest of the team. Raúl González was the coach. Alcorcón (5-2-3) had Josele in goal, with J. Sebastián, Rentero, J. Pola, Rojas, and Samu in defense. Yael, D. Navarro, Aparicio, Vladys, and R. Llorente completed the lineup, with Pablo Álvarez at the helm.
The goals were scored by Valdepeñas in the 18th minute, Jacobo Ramón in the 38th minute, and Borja Alonso in the 60th minute. The referee, Alejandro Ojaos Valera, cautioned several players, including Rentero, J. Sebastián, Jacobo Ramón, Borja Alonso, Yael, and Vladys. Samu was sent off with a double yellow, and Alcorcón’s second coach, Francisco Bernabé, received a direct red card. The match was held at the Alfredo di Stéfano stadium, with 2,353 spectators in attendance.