“David” Fertiberia Puerto Sagunto take on “Goliath” FC Barcelona Lassa

Fertiberia Puerto Sagunto host FC Barcelona Lassa this Saturday from 20:30 at their Ovni home ground, with live coverage on Movistar + (MULTIDEPORTE 6 DIAL 196)

That a team in any sport and at any level goes out to win every match it plays is indisputable. But if your opponent has gone two and a half seasons without conceding a single point, it must be agreed that the challenge is superlative. No, this F.C. Barcelona Lassa is not the best possible opponent for undertaking the search for the points that will take Fertiberia Puerto Sagunto towards safety from relegation. Even the most casual observer knows that, but Croatian coach Nikola Milos will surely want to see Wednesday’s Fertiberia in Logroño, not the Fertiberia that loses these kinds of matches in the dressing room.

The Valencian red-and-whites’ history allows no complacency. It is enough to remember that they played in the first men’s top division in 1958, when this record-breaking Barça did not exist, and that for years in the last century Puerto de Sagunto was hostile territory where the Catalans lost time and again. It is clear that teams cannot live in the past, but this Valencian red-and-white pride, maintained for decades as a combative, battling team that could be beaten but never surrendered, is something Fertiberia must regain if it wants its supporters to leave defeated but proud of their team.

As for absences, the red-and-white infirmary has not had a quiet week. If the good news is Rolandas Bernatonis’s return to the squad, the bad news concerns French-Moroccan Seuff Sayad, who played much of Wednesday’s match with a fracture in his hand. The scan will clarify the extent of the injury, but he will not play. Neither will Berrios, who is being operated on this Friday by Dr Nebot. Alfredo Sorrentino is doubtful; with knee problems, he may be rested for more accessible challenges.

Pasqui’s men have organised a mini Valencian tour. In addition to this match, they will play their next match this Monday in Benidorm, allowing them to use the rest of the week to prepare for their crucial Champions League match against Kiel at the Palau.

In short, another opportunity for Fertiberia Puerto Sagunto to maintain their competitive level as they approach the final stretch of the Championship, now three points clear of relegation following Aragón’s withdrawal and the deduction of their victory in Zaragoza.

Translation produced using artificial intelligence.