Diego Martínez Era Begins with a Memorable Victory (2-3)
Diego Martínez's tenure as head coach of UD Las Palmas kicked off with a thrilling 3-2 win away at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium. This victory, after more than eight months without a win in an official match, has reignited hope for the Gran Canaria side. They had to battle hard to overturn the game, displaying great composure in what was a nerve-wracking contest.
Las Palmas faced an uphill battle as they came from behind to win. Goals from Álex Muñoz, Fabio Silva, and Moleiro, combined with a standout performance by Dutch goalkeeper Cillessen, helped secure three crucial points. This result signals a potential turnaround ahead of their next match against Girona.
The game, which closed out the tenth matchday of the season, didn't start well for Las Palmas. Early on, the team looked unsettled, with misplaced passes and visible nerves from the opening whistle. Valencia pounced on a defensive error just 15 seconds into the match, with Hugo Duro firing over the bar.
In the 11th minute, amidst sustained pressure from the home side, a penalty was awarded against José Campaña for a foul in the box. Despite Cillessen getting close to it, Pepelu converted from the spot to give Valencia the lead.
Cillessen had more work to do after the penalty, denying shots from Dani Gómez and Pepelu again. Diego Martínez’s game plan wasn't coming together at this stage, but as the match progressed, Las Palmas began to find their footing.
Las Palmas settled into the game as their players started to link up better, progressing the ball forward with more confidence. Moleiro posed the first real threat to Valencia’s defense, but couldn’t get a shot off. Before the half-hour mark, Essugo tested the keeper from long range, though his shot lacked accuracy.
With the ball now further away from Cillessen's goal, Las Palmas began to impose themselves, shifting the focus of the game to Valencia's defensive third. Right before halftime, they found the equalizer. A cross-field attack from Januzaj ended with a shot that Mamardashvili could only parry, leaving Álex Muñoz to pounce and slot home the rebound.
The teams went into halftime level, but the second half saw Las Palmas take full control of the scoreboard. Fabio Silva netted the second goal after a brilliant team move involving Januzaj and Campaña, with the latter providing the assist.
Having shaken off their early nerves, Las Palmas looked more composed, and Valencia's task was made even harder when Pepelu was sent off.
Despite the man advantage, the game remained tense, with both sides creating chances. Alberto Moleiro eventually put the result beyond doubt, scoring a third for Las Palmas in the closing stages, thanks to a pass from McBurnie.
