RC Celta’s historic preseason tour of Mexico last night provided a demanding opener. The team from Vigo faced Pumas at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario, at high altitude, under a heavy rain, without their usual leather, against an opponent already immersed in their league. And the sky-blue team competed, tried to get closer to its identity, made an effort and obtained a deserved draw. Iago Aspas was elected MVP of the match.
RC Celta, with Tapia at center back and a good number of academy players in the eleven, controlled the first half with long possessions and hardly suffered any significant approaches. Nor did they create them beyond the inventions of Iago Aspas. Pumas took the lead from a set piece with a close-range header by Brazilian Diogo de Oliveira, which the stadium’s stands celebrated enthusiastically. And on the stroke of halftime, in the final minute, Solari crossed with precision for Iago Aspas to make amends for an earlier missed header. The academy player headed into the net to level the match.
The second half progressed without much rhythm, as did the tiredness of the sky blues, who retreated and defended in the hope of being able to surprise on the counter. There were no goals, but no injuries either, which is already a victory in such complicated circumstances.
The RC Celta now embarks on a trip to the United States, already with its clothing and materials, and with Aidoo and Cervi.
