As the silver category of Spanish soccer unfolds, Leganés, the current leaders, are set to host Villarreal B at the vibrant Butarque stadium. This clash promises to be a riveting showdown, with both teams eyeing crucial points to shape their campaign.
Leganés’ Unwavering Home Fortitude:
Leganés has been nothing short of formidable on their home turf, relinquishing a mere 5 points to opponents this season. Their recent victory against Espanyol catapulted them to the summit of the standings, underlining their steely resolve from the outset. With two consecutive wins and three clean sheets, their reinvigorated defense forms the bedrock of their early-season success.
De la Fuente’s Scoring Spree:
Upfront, the in-form Miguel de la Fuente has been a revelation. His recent goal securing victory in the previous match, coupled with a hat-trick against Amorebieta, has notched up an impressive tally of 4 goals in just two games. With 5 goals to his name this season, De la Fuente is poised to be a powerful force.
Raba’s Absence and Team Lineup:
However, Leganés will have to contend with the absence of the influential Dani Raba, who is suspended due to accumulating five yellow cards. This will be the only setback for coach Borja Jiménez as he prepares his lineup for the encounter.
Previous Encounters:
The history between these two teams is limited to just two official matches. In both instances last year, Villarreal B struggled to find the net, with Leganés securing a 0-0 draw and a 1-0 victory.
Villarreal B’s Search for Redemption:
On the flip side, Villarreal B approaches the encounter on the back of two consecutive defeats, a trend that has brought them perilously close to the lower echelons of the table. Defeats against Burgos and Mirandes have disrupted their six-game unbeaten streak, placing added importance on this fixture.
Away Struggles and Injury Woes:
Villarreal B is yet to taste victory as visitors this season, a challenge they hope to surmount at the challenging terrain of Leganés. Injury concerns persist for the visitors, with Pablo Iñiguez and Hugo Pérez still sidelined, compounding their selection dilemmas.
Ontiveros Returns, Lineup Predictions:
In a positive turn, Villarreal B can welcome back Javier Ontiveros, who returns from suspension. The presence of Ontiveros is set to reinforce the team’s midfield.
Predicted Lineups:
Leganés: Diego Conde; Nyom, Jorge Sáenz, Sergio González, Franquesa; Djouahra, Neyou, Chicco, Cissé; Miguel de la Fuente, Diego García.
Villarreal B: Iker Álvarez; Lanchi, Espigares, Lekovic, Tasende; Carlo Adriano, Del Ética, Ontiveros, Daniel Requena; Alex Forés, Jorge Pascual.