Castellón travel to host Valladolid tonight with the aim of picking up their first win of the season. The match kicks off at 21:30 at SkyFi Castalia, as the team hopes to turn their home venue into a fortress once more.
Despite a defeat on the road in Santander, Johan Plat’s side did not leave with a bad taste—though they were lacking a killer instinct in front of goal. The Dutch coach knows finishing in the opponent’s box is an area that needs improvement if they want to avoid trouble this campaign.
Valladolid arrived at the season with a strong start, according to Plat, who warned that the visitors are a lively side that pressure-high and poses real dangers. “We must be ready because it will be a difficult match,” he said. The Spaniards hail from La Plana’s capital and will look to translate their energy into a positive result against Castellón.
There is a defensive shake-up on the cards. Alberto’s suspension after his red card in Santander will force at least one change in the back line. The likely replacement is Fabrizio Brignani, the Italian who began last week as a substitute and could step in to earn his first official minutes of the season. In addition, Pablo Santiago could be in the squad again after recovering from a preseason injury and may feature for the first time this campaign.
Also noteworthy is that Lottin has moved on loan to Leiria in Portugal, a development that opens up additional options for Castellón as they plan their approach to tonight’s clash.
What to watch for:
– How Castellón adapts defensively with Brignani in line and whether Pablo Santiago’s return adds offensive spark.
– Whether the home side can translate positive moments from the last match into a disciplined, goal-creating performance.
– Valladolid’s high-energy press and whether Castellón can break it with quick transitions and clinical finishing.
Summary and outlook:
A victory would inject optimism into Castellón’s early campaign and help cement Castalia as a reliable home venue this season. Valladolid, energized by a positive start, will test the home side’s resolve, but the match offers a chance for Castellón to set the tone for their league run with a focused and organized display.
Positive note:
If Castellón can tighten their finishing and maintain defensive solidity, they have a real opportunity to start building momentum at home and provide a timely counter to early-season nerves.