FC Andorra Faces Celta Fortuna Test in Balaídos After 5-1 Opener

FC Andorra suffered a 0-1 home defeat to Eibar on Sunday, extending their winless start to the Segunda División season after a 4-2 loss at Celta Fortuna the previous week.

Coach Carles Manso acknowledged the need to adapt against low blocks, a challenge exposed by Eibar's defensive setup at Nou Estadi de la FAF in Encamp. Despite dominating possession and benefiting from a visitor red card, Andorra struggled to break through, echoing a 0-1 loss to the same opponents in March. Eibar have now won their last four encounters with the Tricolours, including three visits to the Principat.

"We didn't quite figure out how to attack that low block," Manso said post-match. He called for quicker ball circulation, including longer passes to bypass players, better width in the first half, and improved orientation changes to reach wingers faster for one-on-one situations. The technical staff also aims to increase long-range shots to force opponents out of position.

Captain Sergio Molina echoed the assessment, noting the team did not have its best day with the ball but left everything on the pitch. "Attacking ten or eleven players inside their area requires patience, precision in the final third, and individual talent," he said. Molina stressed the importance of clean sheets in such games to avoid energising counterattacking foes.

The result hurt more for its manner than the scoreline, coming after Andorra's promising displays: a 5-1 opening win over Ceuta, where they led 4-0 before late concessions, and a 2-0 lead in Vigo squandered by four second-half goals. Manso remains calm, viewing the side as still building and too early for firm judgments after three matches in August. Molina added that Andorra has created winning chances against all opponents and competes evenly.

Eibar's defensive solidity under new coach Jokin Aranbarri prevailed, building on their strong record in Andorra. The Basques pressed higher this time, having won their prior two trips unbeaten since Andorra's 2-0 professional-era victory four years ago.

Injuries sidelined Théo Le Normand, Gael Alonso, and Lautaro, while new signing Enes Sali still awaits federation clearance. Jesús Owono has returned but Pau López started, with selections based on merit.

The loss highlighted a lack of wide imbalance compared to last season's contributors like Josep Cerdà, Minsu, and Jastin. Molina praised Moró Sidibé's one-on-one threat, but Manso confirmed the club is actively seeking a winger for depth and disruption before the transfer window closes in under 48 hours. Options include Guille Fernández, though Barcelona favour a sale. Domestic and foreign markets are under review for a player to unlock deep defences.

A pre-match tribute honoured 88-year-old Antoni Besolí, the club's longest-serving season-ticket holder and former player with over seven decades of loyalty.