Levante and Athletic’s differing goals

Levante UD and Athletic Club square off at 22:00 on Monday in the final game of Liga BBVA matchday 32.

The granotas approach the match with their minds set on salvation. A win against the Basque side would take them closer to their goal. They won their last match 2-0 on the road to Granada CF, therefore they will come into this one motivated and intent on producing a win in the Ciutat de València stadium after losing their last two home matches. To do so, their coach, Joaquín Caparrós, will be without striker Andreas Ivanschitz and midfielder Mohamed Sissoko, both of whom are injured, and David Navarro, who is serving a ban. Caparrós analysed the match against his old team in a press conference: "The game will be very close, we’re playing a top quality team who have an admirable attitude".

As for the rojiblancos, their desire to consolidate themselves in fourth position means they will arrive in Valencia with great ambition. "We know how Levante play. They are clear about their goal and their style and they always show that. They’re convinced", stated Ernesto Valverde before the match. The Basque manager will have to make do without centre-backs Borja Ekiza and Carlos Gurpegi, midfielder Ibai Gómez and striker Kike Sola. In addition, Aymeric Laporte will miss the match due to suspension.