After a first half that saw Valencia outplay Espanyol and score the opener, the visitors have pulled level in first half stoppage time through a terrible own goal from Valencia defender Ricardo Costa. Jose Maria Callejon created the opportunity, but it was going nowhere without Costa’s touch.
Valencia Vs. Espanyol: 1-1 Halftime, Terrible Stoppage Time Own Goal From Costa
Callejon ran down the right flank with the ball and cut in on his left foot, sending what could have been either a cross or a shot into the box with his left foot. It was a harmless ball that his keeper would have dealt with very easily. Costa attempted to direct the ball out of play for a corner with his head, but instead he directed the ball directly into the back of his own net. Espanyol went into halftime level, but they didn’t necessarily deserve it.
Though they’re tied at the moment, Valencia have to be happy that they have been a sufficiently creative side with Mehmet Topal and Hegwiges Maduro in the midfield. Both Ever Banega and Tino Costa are absent from the starting lineup, but Banega is available off the bench if Unai Emery determines that his side needs a bit of a creative spark.
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