Atletico Madrid - Almeria

This could be the most important match for Atletico in Primera this season. Their dreams about Champions League table spot are in doubt after last weekend’s trashing against Villareal.

One my friend said that it is not easy to be Atletico fan and he was right. Red-Whites have continued with inconsistent form and only two weeks after amazing performances against Sevilla and Barcelona they didn’t nave any chances at Madregal. Once again the main guilty is on the back line which wasn’t capable to stop in form VIllareal creative players in attack. The coach Aguire has had a real headache with defensive tasks. He had all season long to solve some problems in back line, but obviously it wasn’t easy job he had to do. Seitaridis made come back after three and a half months of absence and his crucial mistakes against Villareal in the finish of the first half decided the winner of the match. After that everything gone in the wrong way and all positive energy and motivation were wasted.

Now Atleti are points equal with Rasing at fourth table position and if they want to stay in front Rasing who will host Deportivo, they have to beat Almeria. Good news from coach Aguire comes from team’s doctors due to Siamo Sambrose is recovered and will be available for today’s match. He is crucial part of machinery in the mid-field. His inspiration and experience has great value and could be a crucial advantage against one of the best defences in a league.

Almeria supporters already celebrate due to the fact that their team will play in the elite for one year more. Before the start of campaign only aim was to survive and they reach it. However, there are some chances for even better placement. Currently, they sit at eight table position only three points away from UEFA Cup table positions. It is hard to believe that Alemria could beat Espanyol and Sevilla in that race, but for sure team of Unai Emery will fight till the last round.

The main Almeria weapon could be a counter-attack. Negredo and Crusat have already shown their capabilities and talents in situation like this. Almeria have recorded only three away victories so far, but now they are without any pressure, so they could turn on their attacking options on a higher level.

Atletico have had difficulties when they play under pressure in front domestic supporters. I believe that they have better and more quality team then Almeria, but they have to show it on the pitch. Visitors won’t sit back in situation when they have nothing to lose. Lot of chances on the both sides cloud be characterize this match, so my choice is Over 2,5 goals. I will bet 8 on Over 2,5 with Bet365 at 2.05.