In a tightly contested battle at Campo de Fútbol Ibaiondo, Derio edged out Aretxabaleta with a narrow 1-0 victory on October 31, 2025. The match, part of the Tercera División RFEF - Group 4, brought a decisive moment in the 64th minute when an unidentified player found the back of the net, securing three crucial points for the home team.
Leading up to this match, Derio was gaining momentum after a series of impressive performances, including consecutive wins against Santurtzi and Zamudio. Their recent form had propelled them into sixth place, but the challenge against Aretxabaleta, sitting second in the standings, signified a true test of their resilience. Aretxabaleta entered this match boasting a strong record, having only lost once all season and looking to solidify their position as title contenders.
The air was thick with anticipation as the match kicked off, with fans from both sides creating a lively atmosphere. The first half saw both teams exchanging attacks, but neither could find a breakthrough as the defenses remained resolute. Aretxabaleta often found themselves relying on their quick counterattacks, while Derio pressed diligently, looking for opportunities to exploit gaps in their opponent's defense.
As the second half unfolded, both sides increased their intensity. The defining moment came when Derio seized an opportunity in the 64th minute. A quick series of passes led to a well-placed shot that sent the ball into the net, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. This solitary goal would prove to be the match-winner, demonstrating Derio's ability to capitalize on critical moments.
However, the match was not without its drama. In the dying minutes, with the pressure building, an Aretxabaleta player received a red card in the 88th minute, forcing his team to play a man down as they scrambled to find an equalizer. This incident both reflected the mounting frustration of the visitors and underscored Derio's success at containing their attacking threats.
With this victory, Derio climbed to fifth place in the standings, now on 16 points from nine matches. Each point is crucial as they aim for a higher spot in the league, especially after a stuttering start to the season. For Aretxabaleta, the loss was a setback in their quest for the top position, leaving them with 17 points and a reminder that consistency is key to maintaining their status as contenders.
Reflecting on their journey, Derio's recent form suggests they are gaining confidence just in time. After recovering from earlier losses, this win adds to their spirit as they prepare for a tough away match against Durango on November 9. For Aretxabaleta, the task remains to regroup and refocus as they take on San Ignacio, aiming to bounce back and remain in the hunt for promotion.
As both teams move forward, the stakes are clear. Derio will look to continue building on this momentum, while Aretxabaleta must shake off the disappointment and strive to reclaim their footing at the top of the league. With no match ever truly decided until the final whistle, fans can expect thrilling encounters in the weeks to come on this road to promotion.