Castellon vs Almeria: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – 02 April 2026
The 33rd round of the Spanish Segunda will see Castellon host Almeria on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the Nou Estadi Castalia. Both teams are fighting for top positions: Almeria are aiming for direct promotion to La Liga, while Castellon are striving to secure their spot in the playoff zone.
Match preview
Under the guidance of Pablo Hernández, Castellon are having a remarkable season. Currently sixth in the standings (51 points), they play one of the most entertaining brands of football in the league. The “Orejones” rely on high pressing and possession, which allows them to score frequently (51 goals in the Segunda), though their defense often remains vulnerable. At home, buoyed by their fans, Castellon are particularly dangerous: in recent matches at Castalia, they’ve consistently dictated the tempo.
The main attacking threat for the hosts is Ousmane Camara, the team’s top scorer. The medical staff reports that the squad’s leaders are in good physical shape, although key midfielder Beñat Gerenabarrena will miss the match due to suspension. Castellon will surely try to play attacking football, knowing that sitting back against Almeria would be ineffective. Their strong home record makes them a tough opponent even for the league’s frontrunners.
Almeria, led by Rubi, sit second (58 points)—a spot that guarantees direct promotion to La Liga. The team is in excellent form: three wins and just one loss in their last five outings. Almeria boast one of the most talented squads in the Segunda in terms of individual quality. Senegalese midfielder Dion Lopy stands out for anchoring the midfield and launching attacks. Since Cristiano Ronaldo acquired a stake in the club in February 2026, player motivation and media attention have reached new heights.
Almeria have also enjoyed success on the road recently. Tactically, Rubi prefers a balanced approach, smartly alternating between possession attacks and incisive counters. This away match in Castellon is seen as a key test of their maturity. Having won the reverse fixture 1-0, Almeria know how to contain Pablo Hernández’s attacking side and will look to repeat their success thanks to their superior quality.
Interesting facts and head-to-head
- Castellon are winless in their last six matches.
- Both teams have scored in Castellon’s last six games.
- Almeria have conceded in three consecutive matches.
- Over two goals were scored in seven of Almeria’s last nine matches.
- These teams have met five times: Castellon have won twice, Almeria three times.
- The first-round fixture between these sides ended in a 1-0 win for Almeria.
Probable lineups
- Castellon: Matthys - Mellot, Brignano, Jiménez, Alcázar - Barri, Doué, Pompeu - Suero, Santiago, Camara
- Almeria: Fernández - Luna, Monte, Bonini, Muñoz - Baba, Lopy, Arribas - Puigmal, Embarba, de la Fuente
Prediction
We’re in for a clash where Almeria’s class and consistency meet the hosts’ defensive woes. Castellon will look to control possession, but their adventurous style is a perfect target for Almeria’s counterattacks. With Almeria pushing for the title and Castellon struggling of late, the visitors look far more reliable. The gap in squad quality and current form gives Almeria a strong chance of taking points on the road. My prediction: Almeria will not lose (X2).
