Levante UD fight back to beat Sheffield United in pre-season clash

Levante UD came from behind to beat Sheffield United 2-1 in their second pre-season fixture, played in Valencia. Roger Brugué’s 80th-minute header sealed a dramatic comeback after the English side took a two-goal lead inside the opening seven minutes.

What happened in the match?

Sheffield United struck twice early on. Seriki opened the scoring in the fourth minute after finishing a left-wing cross, while McCallum pounced on a rebound from a Peck free-kick in the seventh minute to make it 2-0. The visitors showed composure in their first two attacks, but Levante responded by dominating possession.

From the 20th minute onward, the granotas took control. Carlos Álvarez forced a save with a long-range effort, while Paco Cortés linked up with Brugué to create a clear chance that the goalkeeper had to block. Carlos Espí’s aerial threat and Calatrava’s long-range strikes kept the pressure on, though the goal remained elusive until late.

Brugué’s goal and Levante’s dominance

The second half was a Levante monologue. The home side controlled the tempo and fashioned five clear chances, with Brugué the main danger in the box. His 80th-minute header from a left-wing cross finally broke the deadlock, capping a strong second-half display. Sheffield United, meanwhile, offered little after their early flurry and failed to react to Levante’s pressing.

The referee brandished yellow cards to Levante’s Víctor García and Carlos Espí, while Peck, Arblaster and Donovan were booked for Sheffield. Hamer was sent off in the 65th minute for a heavy challenge.

Team news and line-ups

Levante lined up with Dani Martín in goal, backed by Olasagasti, Iván Romero, Cabello and Oriol Rey in defense. Midfielders Víctor García, Bardeli and Etta Eyong supported forwards Kareem Tunde and Nacho Pérez. Substitutes included P. Campos, Xavi Grande and the match-winner, Roger Brugué.

Sheffield United’s Davies made several key saves, while Seriki and McCallum were their early scorers. Manager Chris Wilder introduced players like Chong and Matondo in search of a comeback, but their lack of cutting edge told.

What’s next for Levante?

This result wraps up Levante UD’s second pre-season outing in Valencia. The granotas now turn their focus to final preparations ahead of LaLiga’s opening weekend, aiming to start the campaign strongly. The comeback against a Premier League side bodes well, though work remains to tighten defensive lines and improve finishing.

Levante will look to build on this performance in upcoming friendlies, with an emphasis on defensive solidity and attacking efficiency. Valencian fans will be hoping to see a competitive side from the first whistle of the new season.