Leganés faces a critical moment in their fight for survival in LaLiga EA Sports, with the team’s fate resting on two games this weekend. First, they are set to play host to Valladolid at Butarque, where a victory is essential for any chance of remaining in the top division. Simultaneously, Leganés will be keeping a close eye on the match between Espanyol and UD Las Palmas, hoping the latter can secure at least a point.
In their last games, Valladolid is eager to end their ten-game losing streak with a win, demonstrating the intensity needed to overcome Leganés. Borja Jiménez, the coach of Leganés, had a clear goal from the beginning of the season: to reach the final matchday with a chance of salvation. While that goal has only been partially fulfilled, there is an atmosphere of calm and confidence within the club regarding their fate, particularly regarding the outcome of the matches affecting them.
Leganés must capitalize on their home match to avoid a second relegation to the second tier of Spanish football, which would be particularly poignant as their previous descent happened without fans due to the pandemic. Despite their challenges, the team can take pride in notable victories this season, including wins against giants like Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid. A win against Valladolid would bring them to 40 points, a tally that has historically been safe for survival.
Additionally, this match could mark the farewell for key players who have contributed significantly to the team, like Yvan Neyou and Dani Raba. However, injuries to Enric Franquesa and Borna Barisic will impact the squad, while Valentin Rosier and Munir El Haddadi are also doubtful.
Valladolid aims to finish their season with dignity, needing a strong performance after their earlier dismal showing against Alavés. Coach Álvaro Rubio has several options, including fielding youth players or relying on more experienced ones to manage the pressure of the occasion.
The anticipated line-ups suggest a tactical battle, where both teams will need to win key duels and capitalize on opportunities. The match, officiated by César Soto Grado, is poised to be a tense encounter at Butarque, kicking off at 18:30.
As both teams go into this fixture, the outcome will not only determine the fate of Leganés but will also define the dignity of Valladolid’s season, with both sides desperate for success in this high-stakes game.