Almería v Castellón: six reasons to keep believing | OneFootball

The promotion play-off semi-final remains open after a 1-1 first leg in Castellón. The return is on Tuesday at 21.00 at Almería Stadium, and Pablo Hernández’s side must win in normal time or in extra time.

El Periódico Mediterráneo notes six reasons for optimism, even with the known absences of Mellot, Mabil and Cipenga.

First, Castellón play very well under Hernández, with ambition, intensity and determination. They have 20 wins, 71 goals, and statement victories at La Rosaleda and Riazor this season.

Second, they have not been second best in three meetings with Almería. There was a 1-0 defeat in the first half of the season, Chirino scoring, then a key 2-0 win at Easter through Ronaldo Pompeu and Pablo Santiago, and Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Brignani and Arribas.

Third, the pressure sits with Almería given budgets and recent trajectory. By budget and recent history, Almería carry the obligation to regain the category, while Castellón are in year two at this level and seek a first top-flight return since 1991.

Fourth, last season brought a stirring precedent in Almería, a 2-5 victory early on. Raúl Sánchez, Van den Belt, Suero and a De Miguel brace did the damage.

Fifth, the away end will be full. The 450 tickets allocated to Castellón supporters sold out within hours.

Sixth, this team have grown under pressure. They had to win their last two matches to reach the play-offs, they did, and now face the next step in Almería.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo