All the action from Ciutat de València is here. Levante secured a crucial win over Málaga on matchday 18 of the 2022/2023 LaLiga SmartBank season, reinforcing their spot in the promotion playoff and pushing the visitors closer to relegation danger.
The only goal came midway through the second half, scored by Vicente Iborra after sustained pressure from the home side. De Frutos and Joni Montiel had created several clear chances for Levante, while Málaga threatened on occasion, nearly taking the lead when Rubén Castro found the net — only to have the goal ruled out for offside just before the break.
The match offered a tense balance, with opportunities at both ends and moments of standout goalkeeping and defensive resistance. Levante displayed sharper attacking intent in the second period, and the breakthrough finally arrived, giving the Granotas a deserved lead that they defended through a disciplined final phase.
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The summary of Levante vs. Malaga Second Division 2022-2023: video, goals and statistics
The finish in Valencia settled the contest as Levante dominated the closing stages and held firm to claim all three points.
De Frutos and Montiel were repeatedly involved in the build-up play, creating dangerous sequences that tested the Málaga defense. The visitors did register attempts, including a long-range effort and a flicked header that tested the goalkeeper, but could not find the back of the net again after the interval.
The first half had its own drama, with a potential turning point as Rubén Castro tapped in from close range after a clever setup, only for the assistant referee to flag offside, denying Málaga what looked like a legitimate opener. The decision kept the scoreline level and shifted the momentum in Levante’s favor after the restart.
As the second half unfolded, Levante maintained the pressure, signaling intent with quick exchanges and overlaps down the flanks. The eventual goal arrived in the 68th minute when Iborra redirected a cross into the net, finishing a sequence built on patience and smartly timed runs into the box.
The match then evolved into a test of nerves, with Málaga pressing for an equalizer and Levante offering controlled counterattacks. The defensive work from the home side, including disciplined marking and organized clearances, helped seal a clean sheet and a valuable result at home.
About to celebrate a win that reinforces their playoff push, Levante’s supporters watched as their team locked down the result with steady defensive discipline and measured attacks.
STARTS THE MATCH!
And with this arrangement, Málaga aimed to snatch the win from Orriols, but the plan never fully came together after the break.
The Levante camp stayed buoyant throughout, maintaining focus and showing resilience after a close call late in the game that tested their composure.
THE ELVES OF LEVANTE KEPT FLYING HIGH!
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Source: Goal