The numbers support both teams' leading roles at the start of the league campaign. Villarreal B top the scoring charts with 21 goals, while the side coached by Ibai Gómez have scored 17, the same tally as Alcorcón and Atlético Madrileño. These impressive figures highlight both teams' ability to reach the opposition's box, create chances and find attacking solutions.
In fact, their attacking approach is also reflected in the expected goals statistic, which measures the quality of the chances created. With the exception of Atlético Madrileño, Real Zaragoza and Villarreal B have the strongest figures in this area, recording 14.77 for the Aragonese side and 13.94 for the Castellón-based reserve team. These figures reinforce the idea that their position at the top is not based solely on finishing efficiency, but also on their ability to create dangerous chances.
Villarreal B thrashed Cartagena in the last round (4-1). Photo: Cantera Grogueta
In addition, both the Maños and the Groguets have recorded six wins, two draws and just one defeat in the nine matchdays played so far this season. Real Zaragoza suffered their only defeat in their league opener against Nàstic de Tarragona (2-0), while Villarreal B lost in the sixth round to Ibiza, who won at the Yellow Submarine's reserve team's ground (0-1).
A SMALL GAP
The gap separating Real Zaragoza and Villarreal's reserve team from their closest challengers confirms the dominance they are exerting in the third tier of Spanish football. Third- and fourth-placed Real Jaén and Real Murcia are four points behind the leaders, while fifth-placed Cartagena are five points adrift. The difference is not yet decisive, but it highlights the strong start made by both the Aragonese club and the Groguet side.
Saturday's match will therefore pit two teams against each other in a battle for top spot. A Real Zaragoza win against the Yellow Submarine's reserve team would send a powerful message from Ibai Gómez's side, strengthening their credentials as one of the leading favourites to finish first and secure the coveted promotion to professional football.
