UD Almería visit the Montilivi Stadium to face Girona FC at 9pm (CET) for the opening game of Matchday 22. A feisty encounter beckons if we take into account the fact that both sides have gone head-to-head 11 times in just over 3 seasons. Fate has turned the two teams into arch enemies after two consecutive play-offs for promotion to the top flight, and another one a decade ago. In total, there have been 21 games played with ten victories for UD Almería, and five victories for Girona FC and six draws. The return game after the Rojiblancos' 3-2 victory over the Catalans in the first stage of the campaign is sure to be a thrilling game. It is particularly significant that there have been only three goalless draws recorded in all the clashes between both rival teams.

STANDINGS

Despite the fact that the Blanc-i-Vermells are four positions ahead of the Indálicos, only two points separate the sides in the LaLiga Santander table. Girona FC sit 11th with 24 points while UD Almería are 15th on 22 points. The Catalan outfit has collected almost all their points at the Montilivi Stadium, however they are struggling on the road with one victory; this only goes to show the enormous difficulty of this match for the Rojiblancos who are still looking for their first away win of the 2022/23 season.

Both teams experienced defeats on Matchday 21: Girona FC lost 2-0 to Cádiz CF last Friday, whereas UD Almería lost 2-3 to Real Betis on the south coast last Saturday. These results not only highlight the immense importance of the three points but also a morale boost in the short term.

INS & OUTS

Two key UD Almería players, Robertone and Baptistão, are back into the frame after serving one-game bans following accumulation of yellow cards. Meanwhile, Girona FC players Yangel Herrera, Couto, Kebé, Michael and Valerie will sit out the game.

PREPARATIONS

The Rojiblancos carried out one last training session this Thursday to complete their preparations for the imminent clash. It was an evening session that was held behind closed doors at the Power Horse Stadium. The UD Almería travelling squad will be flying charter to Girona on Friday morning.

UDA RADIO & DIPALME RADIO

This Matchday 22 fixture will be aired by Club's official radio station UDA Radio. Fans can get match ready with the Conexión Rojiblanca programme from 8pm (CET). Listeners can also tune in to Dipalme Radio.