Barça Atlètic 2–1 Real Unión: Win to end the year positively

Three points to end 2022 on a positive note for Barça Atlètic at the Estadi Johan Cruyff after defeating Real Unión de Irún 2-1. Luismi Cruz and Aranda got the goals in a game dominated by Barça. That's now 25 points so far this season, meaning they are currently tied for a play-off spot, albeit having played a game more.

First half control

The game started off very evenly, but with Barça dominating both the ball and the game without really penetrating the well organised Basque defence. Clear cut chances were few and far between, but both sides had dead ball situations that went over the bar. However, with halftime fast approaching, an Alvaro Nuñez pass back was dispatched into the net by Luismi Cruz to Barça ahead on 43 minutes.

Tense to the end

Barça came out with the same intense approach after the break, pushing hard, with Carbonell grazing a post within a minute. They kept looking dangerous but couldn't find a second, a situation made even more tense when Ander scored from a cross to level the game on the 71st minute.

However, despite both sides pushing for the winner, it was Barça who got the vital winner, a great attack that Aranda finished on the 80th minute, celebrating wholeheartedly with both the fans and the team given its significance.

Next up for Barça Atlètic after the festive break, Logroñés on 7th January.

GAME STATS

Barça Atlétic, 2

Real Unión, 1

Barça Atlétic: Arnau Tenas, Chadi Riad, Casadó, Álvaro Nuñez (Sergi Rosanas, min. 89), Fabio (Ilias, min. 71), Txus Alba (Aranda, min. 71), Luismi Cruz (Estanis, min. 82), Carbonell, Pelayo, Àlex Valle and Víctor Barberà (Zalaya, min. 89).

Real Unión: Irazusta, Jaso (Jon Ander, min. 68), Montoro, Ivan Pérez, Beobide, Quique, Espigares (Gagua, min. 85), Luque (Oyarzun, min. 68), Nuñez (Seguín, min. 85), Bravo (González, min. 68) and Nacho.

Goals: 1-0, Luismi Cruz (min. 43); 1-1, Jon Ander (min. 71); 2-1, Aranda (min. 80).

Referee: Manuel Camacho Garrote. Yellow card for Casadó from Barça and Rivero from Real Unión.