Málaga and Deportivo share the point at La Rosaleda

Andalusian clubs Málaga and Deportivo shared the points this Monday, August 24, 2026, during the opening matchday of LaLiga at La Rosaleda. The encounter confirmed their ambitions to fight for survival in the top flight, with a clear demonstration of their intentions from the very start of the competition.

The hosts took the lead through a goal by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, whose strikes consistently translate into points for his team. However, the visitors quickly responded: Chupe equalized from the penalty spot, securing Málaga’s first point of the season.

An even opening match

From the opening minutes, the match reflected a shared determination to seize the advantage. Aubameyang capitalized on a defensive error to deceive the Málaga goalkeeper and give Deportivo the lead in the first half. Yet the home side responded effectively, particularly through a contentious play inside the box that led to Chupe’s equalizer. This clash revealed two teams intent on making an immediate impact. Málaga and Deportivo have made it clear they intend to be thorns in the side of rivals in the relegation battle, armed with solid arguments to aim for a mid-table finish.

A decisive Aubameyang and a match-saving Chupe

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reaffirmed his reputation as a reliable finisher by opening the scoring for Deportivo. The Gabonese international, renowned for his goal instinct, once again proved his worth to his team. His goal allowed the Galicians to take the lead and believe in victory. In response to this early setback, Málaga reacted with composure. Chupe, introduced later in the game, capitalized on a foul inside the box to convert the penalty and secure the draw. This shared point allows the home side to kick off their LaLiga campaign with an early sense of satisfaction.

Clear ambitions for the season

This draw between two Andalusian sides highlighted their objectives for the season. Málaga and Deportivo, both relegated the previous year, made it clear they have no intention of playing second fiddle. Their performances confirmed their determination to compete at the highest level in the fight for survival. With strengthened squads and stated ambitions, both clubs set the tone from this first fixture. A performance that suggests a fiercely competitive season ahead, where every point will be crucial to avoid the drop.