When the team travels to La Cartuja for the Copa del Rey final against Real in early May, Osasuna may well know whether this will be their only way into continental football next season. The next two La Liga matches against Real Sociedad (at home) and Barcelona (away) will surely test whether they belong among Spain’s contenders for European competition, especially since defeats in these matches could significantly hinder qualification through the league. Furthermore, the schedule then pits them against Athletic and Girona, who will also not give up their tournament points easily. Nonetheless, after a breakthrough 3-2 victory over Betis in their last home game, the Pamplona side will hope they have finally found the formula necessary for success. After 31 rounds, the hosts have 12 wins and eight draws, which corresponds to 44 points and eighth place in the standings. Today Avila and Brasanac will not be able to take to the football field, with the latter suffering from a knee injury.
Real Sociedad is facing serious problems that could cost them their fourth place in La Liga and the associated campaign in the Champions League next fall. The team failed to beat “Real Betis” for the second time this season in the previous round, and they still have to face each of the top three clubs in La Liga. While the team achieved success in the first-round match against today’s opponent, their success in this duel raises questions – in the current football year, the Basques have not scored a single goal away to opponents starting the round in the top eight. “Los Blancos” have 16 victories and seven draws after 31 rounds of the current championship, which corresponds to 55 points and the fourth position in the standings. It’s worth noting the defense line that has been conceding less than one goal per match. In this duel, Merkelanz, Rico, and Sadik, who has a knee injury, will be on the bench.
