The U23 side lost to Dinamo Zagreb in an intense game which saw both teams end with ten men
The first half saw little between the two ides, but things started to go wrong for the Yellows in the 36th minute. Migue was sent off after a tackle which brought down a Croatian striker in the area. Referee Scott Jackson believed it was a straight red card and the right-back headed to the dressing room. Kulenovic scored from the spot.
With a player less, it was tougher for Miguel Álvarez’s side. The Croatians scored their second time just before the break, when Antonio Marin received the ball in the box and beat Josele (2-0).
Álvarez brought on Dani Tasende and Collado, with the latter making it 2-1 in the 51st minute with a placed effort. The game was on. Even more so when the Croats saw Marko sent off for a heavy tackle on Iván Morante (m.54).
The Mini Submarine had chances to equalise but were unable to do so. Next up in the Premier League International Cup is a game against Arsenal on Wednesday 27th November (8pm CET).
Lineups:
Dinamo Zagreb U23s: Juric; Hrvoj, Hulber, Joskj, Butalo, Franjic, Antonio Marín (Miskovic, m. 91), Marko, Kulenovic, Kim (Jakov, m. 60), Jovicevic (Tolic, m. 64).
Villarreal U23s: Josele; Migue, Pepe Castaño, José Manuel, Goyo (Baena, m. 72); Beitia, Morante; Agüero, Akale (Diego Collado, m. 46), Fran Álvarez (Dani Tasende, m. 46); Álex Millán.
Goals: 1-0. Min. 38: Kulenovic, (penalty). 2-0. Min. 45+3: Antonio Marín. 2-1. Min. 51: Diego Collado.
Referee: Scott Jackson. Booked: Joskj, Juric, Narko, Kulenovic y Jakov (Dinamo Zagreb); Pepe Castaño, Fran Álvarez, Álex Millán, Agüero (Villarreal). Sent off Migue (Villarreal, m. 36) y a Marko (Dinamo Zagreb, m. 54).
Matchday information: Matchday 1 of the Premier League International Cup at Aldershot Town FC’s EBB Stadium.
