Match story
- Almeria fired more attempts (11 vs 4 shots).
- Sporting Gijon was more accurate in front of goal (75% on target vs 27%).
- Almeria held more of the ball (67% possession).
Sporting Gijon defeated Almeria 0-1 in Segunda División. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 4 stage in the 2020 season. The match was played at Estadio de los Juegos Mediterráneos in Almería. Rubén Ávalos officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Almeria vs Sporting Gijon meeting in Segunda División with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Almeria and Sporting Gijon. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Segunda DivisiónRecorded meetings: 0 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad's summer recruitment strategy. Cristiano Ronaldo has unexpectedly found himself connected to one of the biggest transfer stories involving one of Al-Nassr’s fiercest Saudi Pro League rivals. While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad’s summer recruitment strategy. The latest move has raised eyebrows across the league, especially as Al-Ittihad moved quickly to strengthen its squad while Al-Nassr is still waiting to complete its first major signing of the transfer window. Ronaldo’s investment outside Saudi Arabia has now played an indirect role in helping one of the club’s biggest domestic competitors. Al-Ittihad has officially completed the signing of Senegal midfielder Dion Lopy from Spanish club Almeria, making him the club’s first overseas arrival of the summer transfer window. According to reports from Al-Riyadiah and several other outlets, the 24-year-old signed a long-term contract after the Tigers agreed to pay approximately $15 million, with the transfer fee scheduled to be paid in installments. The deal also reportedly includes a 10% sell-on clause in favor of Almeria should Lopy be transferred again in the future. The Tigers’ midfield is under the Black Panther’s command 🇸🇳🐅 pic.twitter.com/wDtEPNLc6U— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 The Saudi club confirmed the transfer through an announcement on its official social media channels, although it did not disclose the financial details. Ronaldo’s Almeria investment creates unexpected link The transfer carries an unusual twist because Almeria is partially owned by Cristiano Ronaldo. Earlier in 2026, Ronaldo acquired a 25% ownership stake in the Spanish club, expanding his soccer portfolio while continuing his playing career with Al-Nassr. That investment means one of Ronaldo’s clubs has now completed a profitable sale to Al-Ittihad, a direct Saudi Pro League rival that continues to challenge Al-Nassr for domestic honors. The timing has attracted attention because Al-Ittihad has already secured its first major foreign signing, while Al-Nassr has yet to bring in a new player during the current transfer window. Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al-Nassr FC competes for the ball with Ahmed Al-Julaydan of team Al-Ittihad FC The Senegal international joins Al-Ittihad following the departure of Brazilian midfielder Fabinho, whose contract expired at the end of last season. Lopy primarily operates as a defensive midfielder, although he is also capable of playing in a deeper central role. His versatility is expected to provide additional balance in midfield as the club prepares for the upcoming Saudi Pro League campaign. Since arriving at Almeria from Stade Reims in 2023, Lopy made 105 appearances, scoring four goals and contributing six assists across all competitions. Tansfer that benefits everyone The midfielder built a reputation in Spain through his physical presence, defensive awareness and ability to recover possession. During the 2025-26 campaign, he featured regularly in midfield while also contributing going forward with three goals and two assists in league competition. Statistical reports highlighted his impact in defensive situations, including strong numbers for tackles, interceptions, ball recoveries and aerial duels. His passing range also made him an attractive option for a possession-based side looking to strengthen its midfield. From the Land of Teranga 🇸🇳 to the Tigers’ Den 🐅 pic.twitter.com/9qz0cG9wQO— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 For Al-Ittihad, the signing addresses an important gap left by Fabinho’s departure while adding an experienced international midfielder entering
Cristiano Ronaldo will once again be missing when Al-Nassr takes on Almeria in a preseason friendly, leaving supporters wondering why the Portuguese superstar has yet to return to action. Cristiano Ronaldo will once again be missing when Al-Nassr takes on Almeria in a preseason friendly, leaving supporters wondering why the Portuguese superstar has yet to return to action. The fixture carries added intrigue because of Ronaldo’s unique connection to the Spanish club, making his absence even more noticeable ahead of one of the final warm-up matches before the new campaign. The friendly, scheduled at the Cidade do Futebol in Oeiras, Portugal, is expected to provide another important test for both clubs. While Al-Nassr continues preparing under new head coach Ange Postecoglou, Almeria is using the occasion to sharpen its squad ahead of the new Segunda Division season. Almeria heads into the match after gradually building rhythm during preseason under new manager Xavier Garcia Pimienta. Friendlies against Aguilas, Granada, and Real Betis have helped the Spanish side improve fitness levels while allowing the coaching staff to implement a possession-based style of play. Monday’s preparations included another double training session, with recent signing Mikel Vesga fully integrated into the squad. Garcia Pimienta has continued emphasizing collective movement and ball retention as the foundations of his football philosophy. ⚽️ ¡Hoy tenemos un gran partido de pretemporada! 🤩🆚 @AlNassrFC.⌚️ 19:00 h. 🇪🇸📍🇵🇹 Cidade do Futebol.📺 Streaming en nuestro perfil de X. 🤝 Partido patrocinado por @Alawalyre.#PretemporadaUDA pic.twitter.com/c45iiRgZbn— UD Almería (@U_D_Almeria) August 4, 2026 On the opposite side, Al-Nassr is also entering the closing stages of its Portuguese training camp. The Saudi champion has produced mixed results so far, losing to Benfica B before defeating Merida and then suffering a 4-2 defeat against Estrela Amadora. Why Ronaldo is missing the match Cristiano Ronaldo will not feature against Almeria because he is still enjoying an extended recovery period following Portugal’s participation in the 2026 World Cup. According to multiple reports, the decision has nothing to do with injury or fitness concerns. Instead, Al-Nassr has granted its captain additional time off before the demanding 2026-27 season begins. Reports indicate Ronaldo will only return after Al-Nassr completes its preseason camp in Portugal. The Lisbon camp concludes on August 5, after which the squad will travel back to Riyadh before making final preparations for the Saudi Pro League opener against Al-Fateh on August 15. That timeline would leave Ronaldo with roughly one week of full training before the competitive campaign begins. View this post on Instagram Ronaldo still expected to be involved Although he will not appear on the pitch, Ronaldo is reportedly expected to attend the match from the VIP section. Spanish newspaper Marca reports suggest the Portuguese icon will watch alongside businessman Mohammed Al-Khereiji, one of his closest business partners. His presence would allow him to support Al-Nassr while also acknowledging another important part of his soccer career away from playing. The visit has also fueled optimism that Ronaldo’s return to team training is drawing closer after several weeks away from the squad. This preseason friendly carries additional significance because the 41-year-old superstar became a part-owner of Almeria earlier this year. In February 2026, the Portuguese legend reportedly acquired a 25 percent ownership stake in the Spanish club through CR7 Sports Investments, partnering with Almeria owner Mohammed Al-Khereiji.
The Portuguese superstar has been closely linked with Almeria's recent rise, and the Spanish club now finds itself on the verge of achieving something significant off the pitch after a dramatic night in the La Liga promotion playoffs. Cristiano Ronaldo may be preparing for the 2026 World Cup with Portugal, but developments away from international soccer are also giving him plenty of reason for optimism. The Portuguese superstar has been closely linked with Almeria’s recent rise, and the Spanish club now finds itself on the verge of achieving something significant off the pitch after a dramatic night in the La Liga promotion playoffs. The latest chapter of Almeria‘s season delivered excitement, tension, and a memorable late twist. After surviving an intense semifinal battle against Castellon, the club has moved one step closer to completing a remarkable journey that could transform its immediate future. Almeria booked its place in the Primera Division promotion playoff final after an unforgettable victory over Castellon. Following a 1-1 draw in the first leg, the return match appeared destined for extra time before a stunning stoppage-time winner changed everything. The contest swung back and forth throughout the evening. Almeria initially took the lead through Adrian Embarba, only for Castellon to respond with goals from Calatrava and Sienra to put the visitor in control. ¡NO APTO PARA CARDÍACOS! 😳🔥 Marca Álex Muñoz para volver a poner la igualada en el #AlmeríaCastellón. #LALIGAHighlights | #DESENLACELALIGA | @U_D_Almeria pic.twitter.com/8wab9a2lS3— LALIGA HYPERMOTION (@LaLiga2) June 9, 2026 With the clock ticking down, the Rojiblancos looked to be heading for extra time. However, Alex Munoz restored parity in the 80th minute, setting the stage for a dramatic finale in front of a packed home crowd. Unlikely hero emerges The decisive moment arrived in the 94th minute when Serbian midfielder Marko Dzodic produced the most important goal of his career. Arriving at the far post, he connected with a difficult header that flew into the net and sparked celebrations throughout the stadium. The goal was especially surprising given Dzodic’s limited scoring record. Before this season, he had managed only a single goal in his professional career, making his playoff winner even more remarkable. 🔜 Directo a la final.❤️ @U_D_Almeria 🤍#DesenlaceLALIGA | #LALIGAHYPERMOTION | #insideLALIGA | #AlmeríaCastellón pic.twitter.com/zF5uSKJhXJ— LALIGA HYPERMOTION (@LaLiga2) June 9, 2026 The success Ronaldo is waiting for and the final obstacle The dramatic victory means Almeria is now through to the La Liga promotion playoff final and sits just two matches away from securing promotion back to La Liga. That achievement represents the success that many around the club have been targeting throughout the season. After finishing third in La Liga 2, Almeria earned a playoff place and now stands within touching distance of returning to Spain’s top flight. For Ronaldo, who has been associated with the club’s ownership structure, promotion would represent another positive milestone in his growing influence off the pitch. The prospect of seeing Almeria compete among Spain’s elite clubs next season is now a genuine possibility rather than a distant ambition. 🌟 En busca de un SUEÑO.@MalagaCF 🆚 @UDLP_Oficial ⏰ 21:00 horas.✍️ ¿Un resultado para el #MálagaLasPalmas?#LALIGAHYPERMOTION | #DesenlaceLALIGA pic.twitter.com/nVZw4g4N0A— LALIGA HYPERMOTION (@LaLiga2) June 10, 2026 The Cowboys’ attention now shifts toward the playoff final, where promotion to La Liga will be decided across two legs. The club will face either Malaga or Las Palmas, who remain locked in their own semifinal battle. Malaga currently holds a narrow advantage after securing a 1-0 victory in the first leg against Las Palmas. That tie remains open, meaning Almeria must wait to discover its final opponent. The playoff format leaves no room for mistakes. A strong season can quickly be forgotten if a te
Aston Villa have made an initial offer of €17m for Almería midfielder Dion Lopy, a player Unai Emery reportedly sees as the new Felipe Melo. The report, originally published by Spanish outlet La Vo...
After a dramatic final day in the Segunda Division, the club secured a crucial league position that keeps promotion hopes intact and sets up a high-stakes postseason battle for a place in La Liga. Cristiano Ronaldo’s dream of seeing Almeria return to Spain’s top flight remains alive, but the road ahead is now clearly defined. After a dramatic final day in the Segunda Division, the club secured a crucial league position that keeps promotion hopes intact and sets up a high-stakes postseason battle for a place in La Liga. The Spanish club, in which Cristiano Ronaldo recently became a co-owner, endured an emotional afternoon before finally securing the opportunity to continue its promotion push. What comes next could determine whether Almeria returns to the elite level of Spanish soccer after four years away. Almeria entered the final round knowing that a place in the promotion playoffs was far from guaranteed. Despite occupying a strong position in the standings, results elsewhere threatened to derail the club’s ambitions throughout the afternoon. As scores unfolded across Spain, the Rojiblancos slipped down the live table and briefly found itself outside the playoff places. At various moments, the club dropped from third to fourth, then fifth, sixth, and even seventh place, leaving promotion hopes hanging by a thread. The tension inside the stadium grew as rival clubs continued to win their matches. Almeria needed a breakthrough and knew that one goal could completely change the picture. Arribas’ goal to be crowned top scorer and secure a place in the play-offs 👑⚽#LALIGAHighlights pic.twitter.com/2oOjO3dn3I— UD Almería (@UDAlmeria_Eng) June 2, 2026 That decisive moment arrived shortly after halftime when Sergio Arribas converted a penalty, giving Almeria a 1-0 victory over Real Valladolid and securing third place in the final Segunda Division standings. The result represented a massive achievement considering the pressure surrounding the occasion. After suffering consecutive defeats before the final round, Almeria responded when it mattered most. One promotion spot remains While Racing Santander secured the Segunda Division title and Deportivo La Coruna earned automatic promotion by finishing second, only one promotion place remains available. That final spot will now be contested by Almeria, Malaga, Las Palmas, and Castellon, with only one club eventually joining Racing and Deportivo in next season’s La Liga. The playoff system has been part of Spanish soccer since 2011 and consistently delivers dramatic finishes. This season appears no different, especially considering how competitive the race remained until the very last day. Almeria’s journey almost ended before it truly began, but Arribas’ penalty ensured the club remains in contention. Ya quedaron definidos los Playoff de @LaLiga2 para el ascenso a @LaLiga ¿Quién creéis que asciende? pic.twitter.com/I0eUKHcucY— Borja (@AlamyFutbol) June 1, 2026 Why the third place finish could be crucial Finishing third brought more than just qualification for the playoffs. Almeria earned home advantage throughout the promotion playoffs, a significant benefit under Segunda Division regulations. If a tie remains level on aggregate after both matches and extra time, the higher-ranked team advances automatically. That means their league position could prove decisive if any playoff encounter becomes deadlocked. The club’s players and supporters celebrated the achievement, knowing they had successfully completed the first stage of their mission. However, the most difficult challenge is still ahead. The playoff path is now confirmed With the regular season officially concluded, the promotion playoff bracket has been finalized. Almeria will face Castellon in the playoff semi-finals, while Malaga will take on Las Palmas in the other semifinal. The first leg between Almeria and Castellon will be played at Castalia Stadium on Saturday, June 6, with the return leg scheduled next Tuesday, June 9, at t
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