Barakaldo CF returns to Lasesarre this Sunday, aiming to defend an unbeaten home run that stretches across twelve matches this calendar year. Head coach Imanol de la Sota insists his side is focused strictly on securing three points against Real Avilés rather than dwelling on statistical milestones.
The fixture brings together two sides deadlocked on four points early in the campaign, hovering directly above the relegation zone. While Barakaldo looks to use its formidable home fortress to build confidence, Real Avilés arrives with a contrasting tactical approach centered on possession and technical prowess.
The Lasesarre Fortress and Home Comforts
Playing at Lasesarre remains a distinct advantage for the Gualdinegro squad. Barakaldo has not lost any of its twelve home matches played throughout 2026, recording nine victories and three draws. According to club data, only Villarreal B and Basconia match that level of sustained home consistency among teams competing across the top four tiers of Spanish football over the same span.
«Jugar en casa es una buena noticia siempre,» De la Sota remarked ahead of Sunday’s match, acknowledging the comfort of performing in front of the home supporters. Yet, the manager quickly downplayed external narratives regarding the ongoing unbeaten streak. «Nosotros no miramos estas cosas, lo único que nos importa es volver a ganar,» he added.
With Barakaldo sitting precariously just above the drop zone with four points, breaking the pattern of draws and securing a victory is paramount for the squad’s morale and league standing.
Contrasting Styles: Direct Play Versus Possession
Sunday’s visitors present a unique tactical challenge. Real Avilés enters the match level on four points with Barakaldo, but under the direction of Yago Iglesias, they favor a patient, possession-based philosophy.
«Es un equipo que se asocia bien, que a través de acumular pases, es capaz de buscar ventajas,» explained De la Sota regarding the opponent’s build-up play. While Avilés prefers to meticulously circulate the ball, Barakaldo typically deploys a more direct style.
De la Sota also warned that the opposition poses threats beyond their systemic passing game. The club invested heavily during the summer transfer window to assemble a roster featuring experienced players, particularly from midfield forward. «A través de la calidad individual, también te pueden hacer daño,» the Barakaldo coach noted.
Countering the Threat Through Essential Identity
To combat Avilés’ technical dominance, De la Sota emphasized that Barakaldo must double down on its core tactical identity: remaining an aggressive, high-pressing, and vertical side.
«Es importantísimo contra cualquier perfil, pues ante un equipo con ese dominio del juego, todavía más,» stated De la Sota, stressing that defensive intensity will dictate whether the hosts can disrupt the visitors’ rhythm.
Squad News and Availability
Barakaldo continues to manage several roster absentees heading into the weekend. Ander Sustatxa, Unai Naveira, and Jon Cabo remain sidelined due to injuries. Meanwhile, the manager noted that it remains premature for Álvaro Peña and Camus to feature in the starting lineup as they work their way back to full fitness.
On a positive note, the Gualdinegro squad welcomes back Xemi Fernández, who returns to availability after serving a suspension.
Worth a look
