Fulham withdraws after Arbeloa's expulsion, Malaga wins Costa del Sol

Malaga clinched the Costa del Sol Trophy by default after English club Fulham withdrew from the match, refusing to participate in the penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw in regulation time. The controversial end came after Fulham's coach, Álvaro Arbeloa, was expelled for protesting a referee's decision at the close of the game.

The match itself began with an early setback for Malaga when attacker Adrián Niño was forced off due to injury, raising concerns just days before the league season commences. Despite this, Malaga adjusted their formation and began to threaten Fulham's goal, even after conceding an early lead.

Fulham took the lead through Sessegnon's header in the 23rd minute, but Malaga quickly equalized via Chupe. The English side regained the lead in the 57th minute with a goal from Alex Iwobi. However, Malaga fought back, securing a late equalizer from Eneko Jauregi via a penalty in the 90th minute for a handball, leveling the score at 2-2.

Malaga concludes its preseason with this asterisked victory, having also secured two draws and two wins, alongside one loss. The team is now preparing for its LaLiga debut next Wednesday against Atlético de Madrid.