Portugalete vs Aretxabaleta Match Recap - Nov 16, 2025

Portugalete's Late Surge Secures Thrilling 3-2 Victory Over Aretxabaleta

Portugalete's relentless pursuit of dominance in the Tercera División RFEF continues, as they secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Aretxabaleta, solidifying their position at the top of the table. This match showcased Portugalete's resilience, coming back from an early deficit to clinch all three points in the dying moments. With this win, they now boast an impressive record of eight wins in their last ten matches, underscoring their status as title contenders.

Aretxabaleta's recent form has been a tale of inconsistency, and this match only added to their woes. Despite starting strong with an early goal, they faltered under pressure, unable to maintain their lead against a Portugalete side that has been firing on all cylinders. With just one win in their last five outings, Aretxabaleta must regroup quickly if they hope to remain competitive in the upper echelons of the league.

Cuello emerged as a key figure for Portugalete, scoring the equalizer just moments after Aretxabaleta took the lead. His ability to find the net consistently has been pivotal for Portugalete, who have relied on his attacking prowess throughout the season. Following his performance today, Cuello has now contributed significantly to Portugalete's scoring tally, reinforcing his role as a crucial player in their title chase.

Portugalete's tactical approach was evident throughout the match, as they maintained a possession rate of around 57%, effectively controlling the tempo and dictating play. Their ability to create scoring opportunities was highlighted by an expected goals (xG) figure of approximately 2.1 per game, showcasing their offensive efficiency. This match further emphasized their attacking depth, with multiple players stepping up to contribute when it mattered most.

Aretxabaleta's struggles were compounded by their inability to convert possession into meaningful chances. Despite having moments of control, they managed only a handful of clear-cut opportunities against a disciplined Portugalete defense. Their xG numbers have been concerning, averaging around 1.0 per match in recent games, which reflects their ongoing challenges in breaking down organized defenses.

The late goals from Portugalete not only secured the win but also highlighted their mental fortitude. With a goal in the 89th minute, they demonstrated a relentless spirit that has characterized their recent performances. This late surge could serve as a turning point for Portugalete, reinforcing their confidence as they head into upcoming fixtures.

Aretxabaleta must now confront the reality of their recent form and find solutions quickly. Their defensive vulnerabilities were exposed today, and they will need to tighten up if they wish to remain competitive against teams like Portugalete. The pressure is on key players like Jon García to elevate their performances and provide the necessary spark to reignite Aretxabaleta's campaign.

Looking ahead, Portugalete will face Durango next week, where they will aim to extend their winning streak and further solidify their position at the top of the table. Meanwhile, Aretxabaleta will host Deusto, a match that could prove crucial for restoring confidence and momentum. Both teams have much at stake as they navigate this critical juncture in the season.

Reflecting on my earlier predictions, I anticipated a strong showing from Portugalete based on their recent form and home advantage. They certainly delivered, proving that they are not just contenders but serious title challengers in this league. Aretxabaleta's path forward is less certain; they must address their inconsistencies if they hope to reclaim their footing in the standings.