Levante UD drew 0-0 with Osasuna at El Sadar to claim their first point of the 2026/27 season. The Granotas showed clear improvement over their performance eight days earlier at RCDE Stadium, despite lacking the finishing touch to break the deadlock.
How did Levante UD's performance evolve during the match?
Levante UD began the game with hesitation in build-up play, but grew into the contest as it progressed. Nacho Pérez displayed intent and willingness on the ball early on, though he was hindered by Osasuna’s pressing and lost influence before halftime. After the break, he regained composure and became more defensively robust, even against physically stronger opponents. Manu Sánchez, playing at his former home where he spent three seasons, was incisive on the counter and supported the central defenders in build-up, delivering a composed and characterful performance.
How did Levante UD’s defence handle Osasuna’s chances?
The Granota defence was instrumental in preserving the clean sheet. Mathew Ryan made several notable saves, including a crucial stop from an Ante Budimir header at the far post in the second half and another key intervention before halftime where he parried and then caught Osasuna’s clearest chance. Mandi was secure both with and without the ball, improving on his display at Cornellà, and even prevented an Osasuna goal late on with a goal-line clearance off the post in the six-yard box.
Why couldn’t Levante UD convert their opportunities?
Despite creating chances, particularly down Brugué’s flank, Levante lacked the final product. Brugué, returning from suspension, had the side’s clearest chance with a header that struck the crossbar after a Bardeli cross from a swift transition. Dela struggled to find space as Osasuna’s positioning blocked his passing lanes, with Moi Gómez and Budimir closing him down, and his long-range efforts missed the target. Olasagasti failed to link play effectively, frequently losing possession and making positional errors, while Thiago Fernández showed flashes of quality but could not integrate into the game.
How did Bardeli’s performance affect the team’s balance?
Bardeli, in his first start for Levante after joining from Dunkirk, displayed energy and covered ground, offering options to advance. His pass led to the cross that resulted in Brugué’s header off the bar. However, his physical output dropped in the second half, reducing his offensive involvement, and he made misplaced passes that led to Osasuna counter-attacks.
The draw leaves Levante UD in 11th place in La Liga with 1 point, 0 wins, 1 draw, and 0 losses from one match, five points behind leaders Sevilla. Their next fixture is at home against Getafe on August 31, a game you can track via our fixtures. For live updates on the team’s position, visit our standings page.
