Estepona vs Malaga Match Recap - Oct 30, 2025

In a thrilling encounter that lived up to the unpredictability of the Copa del Rey, Malaga triumphed over Estepona with a final score of 3-1, securing their passage to the next round of the tournament. Played on October 30, 2025, the match showcased the best and worst of both teams as they battled for survival in this high-stakes knockout competition.

The opening moments of the match were characterized by tense exchanges and a nervous rhythm that suggested both teams were feeling the weight of expectations. The anticipation, however, soon turned into jubilation for Malaga when Julen Lobete converted a penalty kick in the 12th minute, giving his side an early edge. After a foul in the box, Lobete confidently stepped up, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to put Malaga ahead 1-0. It was a crucial moment that seemed to invigorate the visitors' spirits as they aimed to build on their lead.

Despite the setback, Estepona did not shrink in response. The home side, desperate to break their recent losing streak, fought back tenaciously. They managed to regain their composure and looked for openings. However, attempts to penetrate the Malaga defense were thwarted time and again. As the first half drew to a close, both teams went into the locker room with the score at 1-0, and the tension was palpable.

The second half began with Estepona stepping up their game. With their fans rallying behind them, they began to find more space and create chances. Yet, the breakthrough they sought eluded them until the 78th minute when Malaga's Josué Dorrio scored to extend the lead to 2-0. His goal came at a critical moment and seemed to deflate Estepona's hopes of a comeback.

Just two minutes later, in a captivating twist, Estepona pulled one back. A moment of confusion in the Malaga defense allowed an unknown player to score, reigniting dreams of a comeback. The atmosphere shifted dramatically as the home crowd roared with newfound belief. The score now stood at 2-1, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.

However, the momentum was short-lived as Malaga struck back decisively in added time. In the dying moments of the match, another unknown player found the net for the visitors, sealing the deal and pushing the score to 3-1. The final whistle blew soon after, ending the contest and confirming Malaga's advancement in the Copa del Rey.

This match continued the troubling recent form for Estepona, who have now lost three out of their last five fixtures. Their struggles in the league have been evident, with only one win in their last five matches. They sit in a precarious position in Segunda División RFEF - Group 4, and this loss adds to their woes. On the other hand, Malaga has begun to find their rhythm, winning their last match against FC Andorra and now advancing in this tournament. The victory offers them a confidence boost, potentially steering their ship back on course.

As both teams look ahead, the stakes remain high. Estepona needs to address their recent inconsistency quickly, as they will be desperate to turn things around in their league campaign. Meanwhile, Malaga, having found some momentum, will hope to carry this energy into their upcoming fixtures. The Copa del Rey has provided an opportunity for both to showcase their potential, and it will be interesting to see how they respond in the matches to come. For Malaga, this win could be a catalyst for a season revival, while Estepona will need to hunker down and regroup if they hope to salvage their season.