​​1-0: VICTORY FOR SEVILLA ATLÉTICO AGAINST AD MÉRIDA TO CLOSE THE FIRST HALF

Sevilla Atlético started the new year with a well-deserved victory against AD Mérida at the Jesús Navas Stadium. Facing a rival fighting for a playoff spot to ascend to the second division, Sevilla Atlético delivered an excellent performance. Antonetti scored the only and decisive goal just past the hour mark. Far from struggling in the match, Sevilla’s reserve team could have extended their lead on the scoreboard in a second half where Dani Vicente, the visiting goalkeeper, became a key player for the Mérida side.

The visiting goalkeeper could have been sent off in the very first play of the match, where Mateo Mejía, after receiving a great pass from Dimas, was brought down by the keeper in a one-on-one situation. Later, Oso surprised everyone with a powerful free-kick that grazed the top-right corner of the AD Mérida goal. Despite enjoying periods of dominance in the first half, AD Mérida failed to create any real danger for the goal defended by Alberto Flores. In the visitors' best chance of the opening 45 minutes, Andrés Castrín intercepted a low pass from Liberto in the box, which could have easily led to the opening goal of the match.

In the second half, Sevilla Atlético outmatched their opponent in intensity, constantly creating dangerous opportunities in the visitors' penalty area. On a counterattack, Mateo Mejía had what was, up to that point, the best scoring chance for Sevilla’s reserve team. He broke down the right wing but failed to make a clean strike, missing the opportunity to pass to Antonetti, who was unmarked and advancing into the center of the box. However, Jesús Galván’s players didn’t dwell on the missed chance. Antonetti broke the deadlock after a brilliant play involving Oso and Hormigo. The Puerto Rican capitalized on a rebound from Dani Vicente after an initial shot in the box, slotting the ball home to make it 1-0. Antonetti could have secured the victory with a second goal, but another outstanding reflex save by Dani Vicente denied him. Sevilla Atlético closed ranks firmly during stoppage time to fend off Mérida’s persistent attacks, ultimately securing the three points and moving out of the relegation zone.

MATCH DETAILS

Sevilla Atlético: Alberto F., Darío, Ramón Martínez, A. Castrín, Hormigo, Rivera (R. Jalade, 46 minute), Manu Bueno, Mateo Mejía (Alexandro, 92 minute), Oso (Miguel Sierra, 92 minute), Dimas (Alexis Ciria, 77 minute), and Antonetti (Ibra Sow, 83 minute).

Árbitro: Jerónimo Montes García-Navas, from the Madrid committee. Yellow cards were shown to Rivera, Darío, Luis Pareja, and Dani Vicente.

Goles: 1-2: Antonetti, 62 minute.