Liga Relegation battle tonight, with some big name casualties expected. A few posts back, I had mentioned how the 2004 Deportivo AC 2nd leg was the greatest football match I’ve seen, 1-4 at the San Siro, not even rabid liga fans like me would have given Depor a chance of a comeback at the Riazor. 90 minutes later it was 4-0. After the incredible Makaay – Tristan – Valeron combo died with Roy leaving for Bayern, the Luque – Pandiani pair made sure Depor (2000 Liga Champs and Top 3 every since) were still one of the premier Liga teams to contend with,.
7 years on, (in which a grand total of zero top-4 finishes have been achieved...) they stare at the imminent ignominy of Segunda. Joining them are Sociedad (yes the same Sociedad who consistently pushed Real till the very last week for the title), Osasuna (Champions league ‘06, UEFA Cup Semis ‘07) and Zaragoza (who always used to get voted most exciting team in Spain, how could they not! With Villa first, then Aimar – Diego Milito – Oliveira!).
Noone’s really safe in this cruel league, ask poor Celta Vigo who still haven’t managed to climb back to Liga, and tonights relegation fates rest on 3 Valencian clubs – Levante who face Zaragoza; Villarreal vs Osasuna; and the huge Valencia vs. Deportivo. My picks : Getafe Sociedad draw – both safe. Zaragoza win at Levante. Osasuna and Depor both lose – Deportivo joins Hercules and Almeria to Segunda. Although given Valencia has nothing to play for (3RD place wrapped up), I hope they hand out a favor...
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