Is the football world ready to see Getafe rubbing shoulders with the big boys in Europe next season? The most unpopular team in Spain sits pretty with a genuine chance to grab that magical seventh spot which opens the door to the Conference League. Everything rests on their shoulders right now as they hold a slender one point lead over Rayo Vallecano with just one round left in the La Liga season. Fans across the country are buzzing with excitement mixed with nerves as the Madrid outfit eyes history.
Team Form
Getafe have had a rollercoaster ride lately and their recent form shows plenty of ups and downs that could decide their European dream. They dropped a painful 0-1 defeat away to Elche last time out when a win would have sealed things early. That result marked their third loss in the last five outings including a 0-2 reverse against direct rivals Rayo Vallecano. Still the side has shown grit all campaign long and sits in seventh place heading into this crunch fixture.
- Only 31 goals scored in 37 matches with a negative goal difference of 31-38
- Three defeats in the last five games including key clashes
- Strong home record that has kept them in the hunt despite criticism
- Osasuna on the other hand have lost their last four matches in a row
Tactical Analysis
Jose Bordalas has built a no nonsense side that focuses on defensive solidity rather than flashy attacking play which often draws heavy criticism from neutrals. Their matches feature the least amount of open football according to all major metrics yet this approach has proved effective over the long haul in the league. Osasuna by contrast play a more entertaining brand but their results have been poor and nerves are clearly frayed with just two points separating them from the drop zone. Key battles in midfield and set piece defending will likely shape the outcome as both teams fight for very different goals this weekend.
- Getafe strengths include compact defending and dangerous counter attacks at home
- Weaknesses lie in low scoring output and recent away form
- Osasuna lack confidence after four straight defeats and face survival pressure
- Weather and crowd support could add extra intensity at the Coliseum
Betting Proposal
With everything on the line for Getafe at home against a struggling Osasuna the smart money points towards backing the hosts to at least avoid defeat. The team has battled hate all season yet remains on course for European football if they take care of business in front of their own fans. A win would guarantee Conference League action while even a draw keeps their hopes alive. Asian handicap on Getafe at 1.68 looks the value pick as the home side are unlikely to lose this one.
