In the Estadio de los Juegos Mediterraneos, UD Almeria hosted Valencia in an intense La Liga competition that ended in 2-1 in favor of the home side. Through a detailed analysis of the match, we can uncover the key statistical factors and performances that dictated its final outcome.

Scoring played a crucial role in Almeria’s victory. The home side’s two goals came within nine minutes of each other in the second half. Gonzalo Melero placed the first goal just 49 minutes into the match by seizing an opportunity created by Samu Costa, whose performance deserves commendation for this assist. Shortly after, Srdjan Babic solidified their lead with a second goal assisted by Lucas Robertone.

Valencia, however, did not go down without a fight. At 01:00:34 into the second half, Samuel Castillejo Azuaga got a consolation goal, helping Valencia claw back into the game. Nevertheless, Almeria’s defensive discipline ensured it was all they would concede.

Discipline seemed to be a recurring theme in this match with a total of five yellow cards issued. Almeria saw greater caution with three yellow cards, which could have disrupted their rhythm. Despite this, the home side stayed afloat through steady resilience in their defensive and midfield efforts.

When it came to shot accuracy, both teams were evenly matched. Each team had four shots on target, exhibiting an equivalent level of offensive threat. However, Valencia had slightly more unsuccessful attempts, with seven shots off target compared to Almeria’s six. This slight advantage was one of the game-changers in Almeria’s favor.

The home team also dominated in terms of ball control. They created more set-piece opportunities, evidenced by their three corner kicks compared to Valencia’s seven. Furthermore, they maintained their offensive pressure while Valencia was caught in the offside trap once, proving the effectiveness of Almeria’s defensive strategy.

Finally, fouls played an equal part in both teams' game plan with both teams accumulating 11 fouls each. This is a testament to the physical intensity and determination to capture possession in this match.

Overall, although Valencia came close to holding their own against Almeria, it was the home side's resilience, aided by two critical goals, and their more effective use of opportunities like set-pieces that prevailed. Key players like Melero, Babic, Robertone, and Costa who contributed with goals and assists, played a pivotal role in this outcome.

Despite the disciplinary disruptions, Almeria managed to stay in command throughout, proving their consistent performance and exhibiting superior teamwork which eventually led to their well-deserved victory.

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