For now, it is the strongest of the opponents Real Zaragoza have faced. After losing to Nástic de Tarragona, the Aragonese side recorded three consecutive wins, overcoming Antequera, Juventud de Torremolinos and Cartagena. None of the three had the caliber of players Ibiza have in their squad.
Real Zaragoza in Sunday's victory over Cartagena. Photo: Pilar Álvarez
At present, apart from Nástic de Tarragona, it is the highest-ranked team Real Zaragoza will face. Although they sit in the middle of the table, in eighth place, they have two wins to their name. Their most recent defeat came last week, when they lost 2-1 to Real Jaén, who remain unbeaten this season.
Meanwhile, Real Zaragoza will visit Palladium Can Misses, the home of an Ibiza side that have won both of their matches there. They beat Rayo Majadahonda 2-1 and Sant Andreu 2-0, meaning they too face the same challenge of the season against the Aragonese side: beating a “giant”.
KEY NAMES
A significant number of Ibiza players have featured in the Segunda División and even the top flight. For example, goalkeeper Andrés Prieto came through Real Madrid's academy and played seven matches between the top tier and the Europa League for Málaga and Espanyol.
In defense, Yeremy Blasco made 131 Segunda appearances for Real Sociedad B and S.D. Huesca, while Eric Curbelo has even made his debut in the top flight. Genaro has been a regular in Segunda División, most recently with Córdoba last season.
The standout player on Real Zaragoza's next opponent is José Carlos Lazo, who came through Real Madrid and Villarreal. He has played ten matches in the top flight, scoring one goal. In addition, Manu Justo has earned promotion in each of the three seasons he has played in Primera RFEF.
REAL ZARAGOZA'S CHALLENGE
Real Zaragoza now face the challenge of securing their fourth consecutive win of the season. The Blanquillos are putting up promotion-contender numbers, with three wins in four matches this season. A fourth win in five games, giving them 12 points from 15, would be a major statement.
