Las Palmas Braces for Pivotal Clash with Alaves Amid Relegation Woes

As the clock ticks down to March 14, 2025, UD Las Palmas finds itself on the precipice of a season-defining moment against Deportivo Alaves. This encounter not only highlights the intense battle for survival in La Liga but also underscores the contrasting fortunes of two teams teetering on the brink of relegation. With Las Palmas languishing in 19th place and Alaves just a notch above in 18th, the stakes have never been higher.

Las Palmas’ recent form paints a grim picture. Post-winter break, the team has managed just two wins in ten outings. This alarming slide has seen them accumulate a mere 24 points from 27 matches, a statistic that tells a tale of missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential. Their struggles are further magnified on home turf, where they've garnered only 13 points from 13 games, a record that leaves much to be desired for a side fighting to claw its way out of the relegation zone.

In stark contrast, Alaves arrives at this fixture with a semblance of momentum. Their recent triumph over Villarreal, albeit a slender 1-0 victory, signals a team capable of grinding out results when it matters most. With 26 points, they hold a slim advantage over Las Palmas, but it’s their confidence, buoyed by a previous 2-0 win in the reverse fixture, that could prove decisive as they seek to complete a La Liga double over their rivals.

The return of Alberto Moleiro and Scott McKenna from suspension is a much-needed boost for Las Palmas. Moleiro, with his creative spark, and McKenna, a stalwart in defense, will be pivotal if Las Palmas are to reverse their fortunes. However, the absence of Viti Rozada and Dario Essugo due to disciplinary issues leaves a dent in their tactical setup, potentially unsettling the team’s balance. As the match unfolds, the onus will be on Las Palmas to leverage these returns and mitigate their disciplinary absences.

This match is more than just a battle for points; it's a testament to resilience, strategy, and the sheer will to survive. For Las Palmas, a victory could spark a resurgence, providing a critical lifeline in a season marred by inconsistency. Conversely, Alaves will aim to consolidate their position, using this opportunity to distance themselves from the relegation quagmire. As both teams prepare for this high-stakes encounter, the narrative is set for a clash that could very well shape the destiny of their respective campaigns.