Struggling Valladolid Faces Osasuna with Survival Hopes on the Line

VALLADOLID, Spain — Real Valladolid hosts Osasuna at the Estadio Municipal Jose Zorrilla on Sunday, April 20, 2025, as they look to revitalize their hopes of staying in La Liga. With only seven matches remaining, Valladolid sits at the bottom of the table, 14 points adrift of safety after 31 matches this season.

The White and Violets have had a challenging run, managing only four wins alongside 23 losses this season, currently leaving them with just 16 points. Their last match ended in a disappointing 4-2 defeat against Atletico Madrid, continuing a five-match losing streak that has seen them concede a staggering 73 goals — the worst defensive record in La Liga.

Head coach José Rubio emphasizes the magnitude of the upcoming match: “We need a miracle to escape the relegation zone, but every game is an opportunity to turn things around,” he said. Valladolid’s goal-scoring struggles have also been evident, with just 21 goals scored, making it difficult to understand why they remain at the bottom.

Osasuna, in contrast, aims for European qualification, currently sitting 12th but only five points from the eighth place, which could secure a Conference League playoff spot. They enter the match buoyed by a three-game unbeaten streak, including a crucial 2-1 victory over Girona last time out.

Osasuna manager Jagoba Arrasate noted the importance of such matches: “Establishing a winning mentality is crucial if we want to push for a European spot. Every point counts in this league,” he stated.

Despite their position, Osasuna’s away form presents a challenge; they have secured just one win in 15 attempts on the road this season. However, Valladolid’s home record is equally dismal, having collected only 13 points at home.

The teams last faced off in December 2020, with Valladolid securing a win. Though recent meetings have seen a mix of results, including two goalless draws, the stakes have never been higher. A victory for Valladolid is essential, while Osasuna sees this game as a stepping stone towards continental football.

Before the match, Valladolid’s lineup may include Ferreira in goal, supported by Candela, Aidoo, and J. Sanchez in defense. Osasuna could field Herrera in goal with a potential lineup of Areso, Boyomo, and Catena in defense as well.

As both teams prepare for this critical encounter, fans are hopeful that their respective squads can deliver the performance required to achieve their season goals.

The odds suggest a challenging match for Valladolid, as their struggles do not go unnoticed by the bookmakers, giving Osasuna a higher chance of coming away with all three points.