There may have been more significant encounters in the history of Córdoba versus Granada, but this afternoon’s clash carries its own weight. For the home side, they are currently in the play-in zone, which serves as an extra lifeline to reach the promotion playoffs. Meanwhile, Granada secured their safety against Zaragoza and now aim to add a sweet finish to a season that promised more.
The team led by Ania is experiencing a wave of renewed optimism that has spread to their fans. This follows a dreadful run of just one point from a possible 24, a streak the Asturian coach lamented in his Friday press conference. Now, they have won five consecutive matches and feel stronger than ever. A sixth straight victory would mark a historic first for Córdoba in the second division, as only once before have they achieved such a streak. Winning would also keep their playoff hopes alive, though they need to win all four remaining games and hope that pressure from those above causes them to stumble.
On the injury front, Córdoba’s squad is relatively healthy, with only four absences: Fomeyem and Adilson are sidelined, along with Isma Ruiz, whom Ania is taking no risks with. Théo Zidane is suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card. Despite these, Ania is expected to field the same lineup as in recent weeks.
**VISUAL CROSSWIND**
Granada arrive at the Arcángel with business taken care of following their dramatic last-minute win over Zaragoza. The red-and-white side have virtual safety secured and are now playing for pride and to earn a place in next season’s squad. Coach Pacheta may rotate his lineup to give minutes to less regular players who have impressed in training.
The only confirmed absence is Manu Lama due to injury, plus the suspended Pascual. Without the Madrid-born player and with Williams struggling, the defense could shift back to a back three featuring Diaby, Óscar, and Hormigo, with Lemos on the flank and possibly Rodelas instead of Diallo. In midfield, Alcaraz and Alemañ appear certain starters, joined by Sergio Ruiz (whose contract hasn’t been renewed), loanee Izan, or Trigueros (who also hasn’t renewed and likely won’t).
Up front, Pablo Sáenz has earned his place through commitment and play, alongside José Arnáiz. With Pascual, the team’s top scorer, unavailable, Pacheta is unlikely to start Petit, who has failed to convince, and will rely on Arnáiz for goals. This lineup aims to compete while keeping the squad emotionally engaged until the end.
**Córdoba CF**
Ania: “Regardless of what happens, the feeling of that one point from 24 will remain.”
**Granada**
Williams’ Fitness Doubt
Additionally, Granada still recall the 5-0 thrashing they suffered last season at this stadium. At that time, Córdoba were also on a good run. So, there are always things left to say, no matter what the standings dictate.
**Referee:** Sergiu Claudiu Muresan
**Stadium:** Nuevo Arcángel
**TV:** LaLiga Hypermotion TV
**Standings:**
| Pos | Team | Pts | GP | W | D | L |
|—–|——|—–|—-|—-|—-|—-|
| 7 | BCF | 62 | 38 | 17 | 11 | 10 |
| 8 | EIB | 61 | 38 | 17 | 10 | 11 |
| 9 | COR | 57 | 38 | 16 | 9 | 13 |
| 10 | AND | 55 | 38 | 15 | 10 | 13 |
| 11 | CEU | 54 | 38 | 15 | 9 | 14 |
| 12 | SPO | 52 | 38 | 15 | 7 | 16 |
| 13 | ALB | 50 | 38 | 13 | 11 | 14 |
| 14 | GRA | 48 | 38 | 12 | 12 | 14 |
| 15 | VAD | 43 | 38 | 11 | 10 | 17 |
| 16 | LEG | 42 | 38 | 10 | 12 | 16 |
**Top Scorers:** Adrián Fuentes (14), Jorge Pascual (8)
**Goalkeeper Saves:** Iker Álvarez (90), Luca Zidane (72)