The tension was palpable at the Ciutat de València as Levante UD faced SD Huesca on December 17, 2023. The match ended with both teams sharing the spoils, drawing 1-1, and leaving fans craving more.
The day's drama unfurled just before halftime when SD Huesca's Soko netted the opener. Receiving a precise pass from Javi Hernández, Soko showcased his talent by calmly slotted the ball under the advancing Levante goalkeeper, Andrés Fernández. The goal, which came at the 45th minute, sent Huesca to the break with their heads held high as they celebrated the lead.
While Huesca had reason to believe they could finish the match on top, Levante head coach Julián Calero made the necessary adjustments at halftime. His players came alive after the break, applying persistent pressure and creating multiple scoring opportunities. The home team made several attempts to clinch the equalizer, with players like Iván Romero coming close to hitting the target but managing only to rattle the woodwork instead, denying Levante the comeback they desperately sought.
Throughout the second half, the Huesca defense maintained their composure, repelling repeated attacks from Levante. Goalkeeper Dani Jiménez continued his outstanding performance, thwarting every effort from the home side, contributing significantly to Huesca’s defensive efforts. It seemed the blue-and-reds might secure their fifth consecutive victory.
But the match took one last twist. Just when hopes dwindled for Levante, Andrés García emerged as the hero. With only seconds remaining, he unleashed a stunning strike from outside the box. His shot curled beautifully, finding the top corner of the net, which left Jiménez with no chance of stopping it. The goal ignited jubilation among Levante's supporters and silenced the Huesca contingent, who had anticipated arriving at the final whistle victorious.
The dramatic equalizer came at the 94th minute, barely as the referee was about to blow for full-time. Players and fans from Levante celebrated wildly, knowing they had dodged what would have been their first loss at home this season. "A great goal from García at minute 94 saved Levante from defeat," reported El Mundo Deportivo.
Despite the equalizer, one could not overlook the bittersweet sentiment surrounding Huesca's performance. With Soko’s goal and the team's solid defensive display, they controlled much of the match and will surely feel they should have claimed all three points. “Huesca leaves with the bittersweet feeling of having let the victory slip away,” said Marca.
This draw keeps Huesca securely positioned among the playoff contenders, signaling their strong showing this season, contrary to pre-season expectations. After the difficult encounters against fellow promotion candidates and injuries to key players, Huesca’s ability to remain competitive affirms the team’s resilience and determination.
Both sides reflected on the game as they look to their upcoming matches. Levante is scheduled to visit Tenerife next, and Huesca faces Real Betis shortly after the holiday break. These upcoming encounters promise even more excitement as both clubs continue fighting for their spots at the top.
With this gritty battle ending level, fans and players alike can only wonder what the next chapter holds for each team as they navigate through this challenging league season.
