Kenyan attacking midfielder Aldrine Kibet continued his development in Spain after featuring for Celta Fortuna in their tough 5-1 defeat against Real Madrid Castilla at the Alfredo Di Stéfano Stadium on Friday.
The Harambee Stars youngster was introduced in the 62nd minute as Celta Fortuna tried to find a way back into the match, but Castilla’s attacking quality proved too strong on the day.
The match started on a bright note for Celta Fortuna after an early goal in the 5th minute put Celta Fortuna ahead through an unfortunate own goal by Jacobo, following a dangerous cross from Anxo that deflected into the net.
Despite the early setback, Castilla gradually grew into the game and began asserting their dominance.
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Celta Fortuna fall to Real Madrid Castilla
Celta Fortuna tried to hold their shape, but Castilla responded strongly in the 20th minute when Joan Martínez converted from a well-delivered corner by David Jiménez to level the score. The equalizer shifted momentum in favor of the home side, who continued to push forward with confidence and intensity.
Just before halftime, Castilla took the lead through Liberto, who produced a brilliant individual effort before firing a powerful shot from the edge of the box to make it 2-1. The hosts carried their momentum into the second half and extended their advantage through Valdepeñas, who finished calmly after a well-worked set-piece routine.
Castilla’s dominance became more evident as Jacobo added the fourth goal at the hour mark, capitalizing on a perfectly timed pass from David Jiménez to beat the goalkeeper with ease. Seven minutes later, Jacobo completed his brace with a composed finish from the edge of the area, effectively sealing the victory for the Madrid reserve side.
Kibet, who came on in the 62nd minute, showed flashes of creativity and energy in midfield as he tried to link up play and push Celta Fortuna forward. Although the Kenyan youngster could not influence the final outcome, his appearance against one of Spain’s top reserve sides remains a significant step in his growth and exposure to high-level competition.
Celta Fortuna had a late chance to reduce the deficit in the 70th minute, but a strong save from Mestre denied them, with the ball eventually hitting the crossbar. Castilla comfortably controlled the final minutes to secure an emphatic win.
The match provided valuable experience for Kibet, who continues to earn minutes and adapt to the demands of Spanish football while pushing for a bigger role at club level and future opportunities with Harambee Stars.
Lineups
Castilla: Mestre, D. Jiménez, Joan Martínez (Manu Serrano 72’), Lamini, Valdepeñas (Rachad 80’), Cestero, Cristian David, Roberto (Yáñez 55’), Liberto (Diego Aguado 56’), Pol Fortuny, Jacobo (Loren Zúñiga 72’).
Celta Fortuna: Caio, Gavián, Meixús (Oliveras 62’), Anxo, Ribes, Hugo González, Khayat (Kibet 62’), Burcio, Ángel Arcos (Capde 72’), Óscar Marcos, Álvaro Marín.