As campaign comes to its late conclusion, Almería aim to enter as third-placed in the play-offs
The Rojiblancos could secure the third position by beating Málaga CF on Monday. Fuenlabrada, Elche and Rayo will play for the sixth place
Almería are now fully focused on the play-offs for promotion to the First Division. Mario Silva’s men aim to enter as the third-placed in the event of a tie in the knockout stages. Under normal circumstances the stadium atmosphere and fans cheering would be an advantage, but since there will not be spectators in the stands, it does not have the same relevance. As aforementioned, if the games ended with the same scores would mean that the best club positioned would beat their rivals.
The Rojiblancos are sitting third on 63 points, the same as Girona although Almeria have better goal average. Zaragoza are in the fifth position on 62 points. These three sides are guaranteed their participation in the play-off competition, and in the case of Almería they would guarantee third slot by beating Málaga CF on Monday at Juegos Mediterraneos. That way, we would not need to have to look at other results. Malaga have already escaped the drop.
Meanwhile, Girona are visiting Alcorcón, and Real Zaragoza are hosting Ponferradina at La Romareda. Neither Madrileños nor Leoneses are risking anything anymore.
The final play-off sport is still available. For the time being, Fuenlabrada positioned sixth on 60 points, will visit relegation-threatened Deportivo de La Coruña on Monday. Elche, on 58 points, are to take on Oviedo, who are thankfully not in danger, at Martínez Valero. Rayo Vallecano could make it to the play-offs, yet it does not depend on themselves.
If Almería manage to remain in the third place, one of these teams could be their next rivals in the first round. Girona and Real Zaragoza would play to their strength so as to book a slot in the knockout stages.