Teams Aim for European Spots Amidst Mixed Fortunes

In a crucial encounter with eyes set on European qualification, two teams are set to face off under very different circumstances. This match marks an opportunity for one team to secure three consecutive league victories for the first time this season. Currently sitting in tenth place, the team is determined to improve their standings in La Liga, with their last victories against Osasuna (4-0) and Sevilla (2-0) in early September.

Their opponents enter the match after a challenging period, having accumulated three consecutive defeats and securing only three points from the last 21 available in the league. Their last victory was against Mallorca (2-1) on their home ground, RCDE Stadium, in early October. A three-week gap from competition was extended due to an international break and a postponed match against Valencia, caused by the severe weather conditions from the DANA event in the Valencian Community.

The home team is riding high after a thrilling 4-3 victory against Leganés at Montilivi and a historic win at the Coliseum against Getafe, their first ever there. Despite disappointing results in the Champions League, the focus remains on leveraging their current positive league run to potentially qualify for European competition, aiming to reach 21 points with another win.

However, their squad faces notable absences due to both suspensions and injuries, including players like Juan Carlos who is sanctioned, and others such as Iván Martín, Tsygankov, Asprilla, Jhon Solís, and Francés sidelined. Moreover, Krecji and Danjuma are also unavailable for selection.

The opposition, under Manolo González, is enduring the worst run among the 20 Primera División teams with losses to top sides like Barcelona, Sevilla, and Athletic Club. This team also faces defensive challenges, having conceded 22 goals so far, making them the second leakiest defense in La Liga, behind Real Valladolid.

On a positive note, they welcome back Pol Lozano and Marash Kumbulla for this match, although they still miss key players like Gragera, Calero, and Edu Expósito, with the latter nearing the end of a prolonged recovery.