The controversy began when Fulham's players headed down the tunnel, believing the match was over. However, Malaga were expecting a penalty shootout and remained on the pitch. Malaga's striker Eneko Jauregi then placed the ball on the spot and converted into an empty net, celebrating with his team-mates in front of the home support.
Fulham claim that both teams agreed prior to the match that there would be no penalty shootout in the event of a draw. Malaga, however, claim that a shootout had been scheduled and that Fulham left the pitch prematurely. The dispute has left the outcome of the Costa del Sol Trophy unclear.
Fulham will conclude their pre-season preparations against Stuttgart on Saturday, 15 August, before their first match of the 2026-27 Premier League season against Chelsea at Craven Cottage the following weekend.