Almeria B vs Real Jaen on January 25
On January 25, 2026, a critical clash in the Segunda RFEF will take place as Almería B hosts Real Jaén at the Estadio de los Juegos Mediterráneos. With both teams embroiled in a tight race for upper-table spots, this encounter promises to be a tactical battle that could define their season. Almería B, looking to secure promotion, will face a formidable Real Jaén side, equally determined to push for a playoff spot. With momentum at stake, every pass, every tackle, and every decision will weigh heavily on both teams.
Almeria B: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Almería B enters this match in strong form, having won three of their last five games. The team has been effective in transitioning from defense to attack with quick counter-attacks, and their formation tends to mirror a 4-3-3 system, which balances defensive solidity with attacking fluidity. In their previous five outings, they averaged 55% possession, a stat that reflects their preference for control in midfield while being direct when it comes to penetration into the final third. They are strong in the air with a high aerial duels win rate (63%) and often utilize long balls to target the wings.
Key to their success has been their central midfielder, Joaquín, who is the engine in the middle of the park. He has a passing accuracy of 84% and is involved in nearly 50% of the team's offensive transitions. His ability to dictate tempo and break lines with precise passes has been integral in Almería B’s upward trajectory. However, the team will be missing their star forward, Diego, due to injury. His absence could potentially shift Almería B’s attacking focus, possibly leading them to rely more on their wings and midfield dynamism.
Real Jaen: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Real Jaén has had a rollercoaster run of late, registering two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five matches. Their tactical setup usually follows a 4-4-2 formation, which offers them a compact defensive structure and a solid double pivot in midfield. The team's strength lies in their ability to break down opposition play through high pressing, particularly in the final third. With 7.3 pressing actions per game in the final third, Real Jaén has managed to disrupt opposing build-up play and force errors, which they can quickly capitalize on.
One of the most notable aspects of their game is their ability to generate set-piece opportunities, as they rank second in the division for corners won (6.2 per game). Their attacking threat is led by veteran striker Iván, who has netted 6 goals in the last 10 matches. His physicality and intelligent positioning make him a constant threat in aerial duels. However, Real Jaén will be without their regular right-back due to suspension, which could weaken their right flank and create space for Almería B’s wingers.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
The last five encounters between these two sides have been evenly matched, with both teams claiming two wins each, while one game ended in a draw. Their most recent meeting, which ended 1-1, saw Almería B dominating possession but Real Jaén proving more clinical in their finishing. Historically, games between these two have been tight affairs, with a high number of yellow cards, reflecting the physical nature of their encounters. This match promises to be no different, as the rivalry intensifies and both sides are desperate for points to stay in the promotion mix.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
1. **Midfield Control – Joaquín (Almería B) vs. Javier (Real Jaén)**: The battle for supremacy in midfield will be crucial. Joaquín has been instrumental in Almería B's build-up play, and his battle with Real Jaén’s Javier, a player who thrives on breaking up opposition play, will likely determine which team dictates the tempo. If Joaquín can maintain possession under pressure and make progressive passes, Almería B’s attack will flourish. However, Javier’s ability to disrupt and launch counters could negate that advantage.
2. **Wing Play – Almería B’s Wingers vs. Real Jaén’s Full-Backs**: Almería B’s wingers, led by Andrés, have been in excellent form, frequently exploiting wide spaces to create chances. However, with Real Jaén’s right-back out, the left flank could be a major area of concern. How Almería B uses their width and isolates the backup right-back could prove to be the deciding factor. On the other side, Real Jaén’s winger, Álvaro, will look to exploit Almería B’s left-back, who has shown vulnerabilities against quick, direct runners.
3. **Set Pieces – Iván (Real Jaén) vs. Almería B’s Defense**: Real Jaén’s set-piece threat will be a decisive factor in this match. Iván’s aerial prowess is unmatched, and with his ability to attack crosses, Almería B will need to be vigilant when defending free kicks and corners. The central defenders for Almería B, particularly Raúl, will need to impose themselves physically to deny Iván any clear chances in the box.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given both teams' tactical approaches, this match is likely to be a cagey affair early on, with Almería B looking to dominate possession and build attacks from the back, while Real Jaén will look to disrupt this rhythm through high pressing. The absence of Diego for Almería B may slightly tilt the balance in favor of Real Jaén, who will be eager to capitalize on any mistakes. However, Almería B’s midfield control, especially through Joaquín, could eventually wear down Real Jaén’s press and create openings for their wingers to exploit.
With both teams evenly matched, the key to the match will lie in Almería B’s ability to break through Real Jaén’s defensive block while avoiding the threat of counter-attacks. It’s likely that both teams will score, but the result will hinge on which team can make the most of their set-piece opportunities and dominate midfield. A 2-1 victory for Almería B seems the most plausible outcome, with Real Jaén putting up a strong fight, but ultimately falling short.
Final Thoughts
This match will answer whether Almería B’s attacking fluidity can overcome Real Jaén’s robust defense and set-piece prowess. Both teams are in desperate need of points, but with Almería B’s home advantage and superior midfield control, they look poised to take the spoils. Who will emerge victorious in this tactical duel? The answer will likely come down to the decisive moments in the midfield and the aerial duels in both boxes.
