Survival Scramble: Valencia and Mallorca's Grim December Reckoning

À Éviter Score Futmetrix: 35/100. Two sinking ships collide in a fixture devoid of quality, where defensive solidity matters infinitely more than attacking flair.

The Setup

Perched precariously at 15th and 16th respectively, Valencia (14 points) and Mallorca (13 points) face a relegation dogfight with no margin for error. The Form of both is fragile: Valencia's recent run reads DWDLL—two consecutive losses that expose defensive cracks—while Mallorca oscillates between wins and defeats without finding rhythm. The Stakes are existential rather than glamorous; this is a six-pointer for the basement, not the title race. Expect cautious, error-prone football where one lapse sends a team tumbling further.

Key Battle

The midfield and defensive transition will determine this match. Mallorca carry Vedat Muriqi, whose 3 goals across 5 recent matches (7.4 rating) represent their only credible attacking outlet. Valencia's leaky defence—22 goals conceded in 14 games—cannot afford another breakdown. Whoever controls the tempo and limits turnovers wins a crucial point.

Our Prediction

0-0 draw. Both sides enter defensively rigid, fearing the mistake that costs them. Muriqi will have half-chances but lack the service to convert; Valencia scraps for a counter without conviction. This is attrition football: grim, low-quality, but vitally important for both camps. Expect a match that tests your patience more than your tactical knowledge.