Almeria vs Las Palmas: Prediction, H2H and probable lineups — 16 May 2026
On Saturday, May 16, the Mediterraneos Stadium in Almeria will host a crucial Matchday 40 showdown in LaLiga 2 between Almeria and Las Palmas. For the hosts, this clash is absolutely vital in their pursuit of direct promotion to LaLiga.
Match preview
Under Rubi's guidance, Almeria have become the division's most prolific attacking side in 2026, already netting 78 goals. However, in the previous round, the team unexpectedly stumbled in Burgos (0-0), unable to break down a packed defensive line despite dominating the game. Sergio Arribas remains the talisman in attack, enjoying a standout season and vying for the league's Player of the Year honors. At home, Almeria play with relentless aggression, seeking to overwhelm opponents in the opening 20 minutes, but defensive gaps do appear at times—something the visitors' skillful midfielders will look to exploit.
Las Palmas come into this fixture on the back of a demoralizing 5-1 defeat to Andorra last matchday. The Canary Islanders traditionally rely on ball control and positional play, with Manu Fuster leading the club’s scoring charts this campaign. Crucially, Las Palmas have tightened up defensively this season, conceding just 37 goals—one of the best records among the league's frontrunners. This away trip will be a true test of their maturity, as a victory here would all but guarantee them a playoff spot.
Tactically, expect a fascinating clash of football philosophies. Almeria favor direct, vertical play with lightning-fast transitions from defense to attack down the flanks, where Soko and Melamed are particularly dangerous. Las Palmas, on the other hand, will look to slow the tempo and drag Almeria into a midfield battle, using the intelligence of Maximo Perrone to orchestrate play. The outcome will largely hinge on whether the visitors’ holding midfield can keep Arribas’ creativity at bay and avoid the one-on-one breakaways that are Almeria’s trademark at home.
Probable lineups
Almeria: Iribarne — Chirino, Nelson Monte, Munoz, Bonini — Lopy, Gui Guedes — Soko, Arribas, Melamed — Thalys
Las Palmas: Valles — Marvin Park, Alex Suarez, Mika Marmol, Sergi Cardona — Perrone, Kirian, Loiodice — Munir, Manu Fuster, Sandro
Match facts and head-to-head
- In the last five meetings: two Almeria wins, one Las Palmas win, and two draws
- Almeria have won six of their last ten matches, losing three times
- Las Palmas have claimed six wins and suffered four defeats in their last ten games, conceding in seven of those
Prediction
Expect a tense, cagey match with few clear-cut chances. My prediction: total goals under 3 at 1.65
