CD Castellf3n and RC Deportivo de La Coruf1a faced off on March 17, 2025, finishing in an electrifying 2-2 draw at the SkyFi Castalia stadium. The match showcased end-to-end action with both teams searching for precious points as they strive to escape the clutches of relegation.
The game kicked off with Deportivo making the early breakthrough when Yeremay scored just five minutes after the whistle. The talented forward capitalized on a turnover by Castellf3n, dribbling around goalkeeper Gonzalo Crettaz after intercepting the ball near the box and slotting it home. It was the kind of start Deportivo needed as they sought to improve their standing, especially coming off recent performances.
Despite the early setback, Castellf3n didn’t remain rattled for long. Just nine minutes later, they equalized, thanks to Isra Suero. The goal was set up expertly by Awer Mabil, who delivered a precise cross, allowing Suero to tap the ball easily past Deportivo’s goalkeeper Helton Leite. This was the kind of response the home fans craved and it set the tone for the match.
The first half continued with Castellf3n applying considerable pressure, dominating possession and creating more opportunities. Mabil himself had chances to find the back of the net, but Leite was equal to the task on several occasions. Castellf3n's performance was particularly commendable as they rattled Deportivo’s defense, establishing themselves firmly on the offensive side of the pitch. But by the time the referee blew the halftime whistle, both teams were still locked at 1-1.
After the break, Castellf3n came out firing and quickly claimed the lead. Jozhua Vertrouwd took his chance from outside the box, unleashing a powerful cross-shot, which left Leite without response—making it 2-1 for the home side. The atmosphere at Castalia was electric as the momentum shifted, with Castellf3n threatening to extend their lead.
But Deportivo wasn't finished yet. They responded with vigor, pushing back against Castellf3n's newfound confidence. The break came for the away side when Pablo Ve1zquez managed to head home from close range following a corner. His goal tied things up at 2-2, showcasing Deportivo's resilience when it was most needed. It was the first opportunity Ve1zquez had, demonstrating the unpredictability and intensity of the match.
Both managers, Johan Plat of Castellf3n and d3scar Gilsanz of Deportivo, made tactical changes as they hunted for the winning goal. Castellf3n's Rafal Snchez received a yellow card from the bench for dissent, and he will miss the next game against Levante due to suspension. Similarly, Dani Barcia, from Deportivo, also picked up a yellow card for his late tackle and will be absent for the upcoming clash against Cartagena.
Despite several substitutions and clear scoring opportunities for both teams, none could manage to find the winner. Castellf3n made changes, bringing on Brian Cipenga for Suero and Ousmane Camara for Mabil, aiming for fresh legs to tip the scales. Meanwhile, Deportivo replaced Mario Soriano with Hugo Rama and made other adjustments to maintain their attacking thrust.
By the match's conclusion, both teams had managed to secure just one point each. The draw leaves Castellf3n with 40 points, positioning them firmly five points above the relegation zone, reflecting their status as they continue battling for survival. Deportivo, on the other hand, moves to 41 points, finding themselves stable yet aware of the dangers threatening the lower end of the table.
Post-match analysis showed dissatisfaction for both teams, as neither secured the victory they desperately sought. Plat commented, "We played very well, had many chances, and deserved more than just two goals. I'm happy with how we played but disappointed we didn't close out the win with the opportunities we had." Gilsanz noted, “It was evident the VAR wasn't functioning, and I believe the first goal shouldn’t have counted. Nonetheless, the game was exciting; both teams went for the win.”
Each team heads back home reflecting on the lessons learned as they prepare for their next fixtures on March 23. Castellf3n travels to Ciutat de Valencia to face Levante, hoping to maintain their solid standing, whereas Deportivo returns to Riazor to host Cartagena as they aim to secure their place outside the relegation zone. Both squads remain ambitious and aware of the mounting pressures with the league heading toward its climax.
