The match, corresponding to the 35th round of the Segunda División League, took place at Nuevo Los Cármenes before 10,627 spectators. The effectiveness of Rubén Alcaraz was key for the Nazarí team, who took an early lead. The game was characterized by a physical and less aesthetically pleasing style of play, which nostalgic fans might have appreciated.
The first half saw Granada quickly take the lead. A swift attack culminated in a penalty for the red-and-whites, caused by a foul on Rubén Alcaraz. Alcaraz himself converted the penalty against Edgar Badía, Cultural Leonesa's goalkeeper, in the 5th minute, thus securing the initial advantage for his team.
Few will be able to say that what happened this Sunday at Los Cármenes was not a match like in the old days. A penalty goal, three expulsions, little football… and seconds that stretch to question the nature of time. Only the smell of cigars in the stands was missing for a complete experience.
The game's development became complicated for both teams, with Granada defending their lead and Cultural Leonesa seeking an equalizer. Tension escalated in the second half, resulting in a series of expulsions that affected both sides. Baïla Diallo and Jorge Pascual, from Granada CF, received direct red cards, while Víctor García, from Cultural Leonesa, was sent off for a second yellow card.
Despite the difficulties and finishing with two fewer players, the team led by Pacheta managed to maintain their lead until the final whistle, unleashing euphoria in the stadium with Granada's old anthem. This victory puts the club one step closer to securing their stay in the category, a goal that seemed distant at the beginning of the season.
