UD Almería hold their nerve ahead of big challenge
The Rojiblancos had a recovery session on Monday and will rest on Tuesday before returning to training focused on the play-offs and the decisive weeks ahead
UD Almería are taking a deep breath ahead of the huge challenge awaiting them on Sunday and hopefully during the following 3 weeks as well. After a difficult night in Gijón, where they suffered a second consecutive defeat and extended their winless run to 3 matches, the Rojiblancos saw their hopes of automatic promotion come to an end. Deportivo’s victory in Valladolid only added to the disappointment.
Now, the Rojiblancos head into the final fixture of the regular season determined to secure 3rd place in the standings, the best possible position heading into the promotion play-offs, which still offer a route back to the top flight, albeit by a longer path.
Following the scare at El Molinón stadium, where results elsewhere briefly dropped Rubi’s side to 5th place in the table, the squad are now regrouping both physically and mentally ahead of the decisive weeks to come. Monday was dedicated to recovery work, while Tuesday will be a rest day as the players recharge for what lies ahead.
The first major challenge arrives on Sunday. UD Almería host Real Valladolid knowing that victory will secure 3rd place. Anything less could open the door to complete uncertainty, they could even miss out on the play-offs altogether.
With 6 teams still battling for the 4 promotion spots, the permutations are endless. If UD Almería take care of their own business, they could face any of the remaining contenders in the semi-finals, although finishing 3rd would at least guarantee home advantage.
The final Matchday promises drama everywhere and after that, the real emotional rollercoaster begins in the fight for promotion back to Spanish football’s top flight.