A 92nd-Minute Penalty Triggers Sudden Chaos in Spain
Premier League club Fulham walked off the pitch during a preseason match against Malaga at the Costa del Sol Kupası to avoid missing their return flight, according to Spanish press reports. The bizarre incident occurred in the 92nd minute after a penalty equaliser forced the game straight to a shootout.
According to Spanish media coverage, Fulham was leading 2-1 when Malaga earned a 92nd-minute penalty. Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa protested the decision vigorously and received a red card from the referee. Malaga converted the resulting spot-kick to level the score at 2-2.
Logistical Panic Triggers Mass Departure
Because tournament rules mandated a direct progression to penalty kicks following a draw, match officials prepared for the shootout. However, according to reports from Spanish outlets, Arbeloa and the Fulham management team decided to withdraw from the pitch immediately. The club cited the risk of missing their scheduled return flight if the penalty shootout extended the match duration.
Malaga Claims Empty-Net Victory Amid Fan Jeers
With Fulham abandoning the field, Malaga players executed penalties into an empty goal under the supervision of the match referee, officially claiming the Costa del Sol Kupası trophy.
Spanish news agencies strongly condemned the abrupt exit, labeling the decision a sign of disrespect toward the tournament organizers and the attending spectators. Local reports noted that fans inside the stadium directed prolonged jeers and chants at Arbeloa as the team departed the venue.
Preseason Preparations Overshadowed by Exit
Prior to the preseason fixture in Spain, Fulham drew attention in the transfer market for pursuing Trabzonspor’s Nigerian central defender Chibuike Nwaiwu. While Premier League recruitment efforts typically dominate club headlines, the team’s sudden departure from the Costa del Sol Kupası overshadowed their preparations for the upcoming domestic campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Fulham leave the pitch against Malaga?
According to Spanish press reports, Fulham abandoned the match to ensure they did not miss their scheduled return flight home.
Who won the Costa del Sol Kupası following the walkout?
Malaga was awarded the trophy after taking penalties into an empty net following Fulham’s departure, as reported by Spanish media outlets.
What caused the match to go to penalties?
Malaga scored a penalty in the 92nd minute of the game to tie the score at 2-2, which triggered the tournament’s rule requiring an immediate penalty shootout.
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