It was never going to be easy for Cordoba. The team who finished seventh in the Segunda and were promoted via the play-offs on a shoestring budget, would face some of Europe’s toughest teams on a near weekly basis.
But after a spirited opening day performance against Real Madrid, many thought the plucky new side would give the many of the Primera stalwarts a run for their money. Sadly, this had not been the case prior to Round 14. Winless, they remained rooted to the bottom of the table.
When they blew a two goal lead away at Elche, many were wandering if the fabled first win would ever come. But on Saturday, they secured their victory win back in the top tier of Spanish football – and they only had to wait 42 years, and away at Athletic Bilbao of all teams.
Granted, the Basque side are not the force they once were, but would have banked on a comfortable win in front of their own fans. That was until Nabil Ghilas pounced on a loose pass from Ander Iturraspe and gave Cordoba fans the win they had dreamt of.
The desperation for a win is indicative of Cordoba’s season thus far. One could say they are unbeaten in half their League matches. It’s a record which sounds pleasing to the ear, but makes grim viewing as far as the table is concerned, with the Andalusian side yet to leave the relegation zone.
With only four points in eight matches Albert Ferrer was sent on his way. It was saddening to see him go, with the young Coach still fining his feet in La Liga. But that seems to be the price of success, with many bosses who bend over backwards to get their team promoted out of a job six months later.
At least in Miroslav Djukic, Los Califas have an experienced practitioner who knows Spanish football well. And they have shown promise under the Serbian, with a spirited performance in their 4-2 loss to champions Atletico Madrid, and picking up six points in as many matches thus far.
Of course, Ferrer’s job was not made easier by the absence of transfer funds. Cordoba brought in around 15 players this summer, none of whom cost a single penny, relying on loans and free transfers to bulk up their squad.
Among the squad of also-rans, there are a few gems which Djukic must get the best out of. Fede Cartabia, the winger on loan from Valencia, has been the creative force for Cordoba, setting up three goals and bagging an equal amount for himself.
Ghilas is their top scorer with four goals and put two past Atletico. Fede and Ghilas account for 60% of Cordoba’s goal tally this season, and will play a key part to any future success they may have.
This is only the beginning of a very long journey to safety. Saturday’s win put’s them up to 18th in the table, but there is still much work to be done if they are to escape relegation. That work starts next week in the form of Levante, who sat in the relegation zone for nine weeks, and must be considered direct opposition.
Cordoba must now build on the win, and make sure they are heading the right direction.
Image courtesy www.athletic-club.net
