Granada Vs Getafe

The Nuevo Estadio de Los Cármenes will be the stage for an exciting Copa del Rey encounter this Friday evening, as Granada from the Segunda División hosts La Liga outfit Getafe in the last 32 of the competition. Both teams approach this clash with contrasting campaigns and ambitions, setting up an intriguing matchup.

Granada’s journey has been one of rebuilding after the disappointment of the previous season. Relegated from La Liga after finishing at the bottom of the 2023-24 standings, the Andalusian side now finds itself battling in the Segunda División. Under the guidance of head coach Fran Escribá, Granada has shown resilience and determination, with the goal of securing an immediate return to Spain's top flight for the 2025-26 season. 

Currently, Granada sits in seventh place in the Segunda División with 33 points from 21 matches, level with sixth-placed Huesca and just five points behind second-placed Mirandés. Their position in the league is a testament to their steady improvement and competitive edge, particularly over the last month. Having lost just one of their last five games across all competitions, the team has found a sense of rhythm and consistency. Their most recent league match, a 1-1 draw with Eibar, demonstrated their resilience as they held their ground against a strong opponent. Additionally, their progress in the Copa del Rey has been noteworthy, as they edged past Real Zaragoza in the previous round with a penalty shootout victory.

Granada’s history in the Copa del Rey reflects a mixture of ambition and near-misses. Despite never lifting the trophy, their most memorable run came in the 1958-59 season when they reached the final, only to lose 4-1 to Barcelona after defeating Valencia in the semi-finals. That historic campaign remains a highlight in the club’s history, but the current squad will hope to write their own chapter in the tournament. However, their recent record against Getafe leaves much to be desired. Granada has not beaten the Madrid-based side since October 2020, and their last encounter, which occurred in La Liga in January, ended in a 2-0 victory for Getafe.

Getafe, on the other hand, approaches this match with a very different set of challenges. The team is struggling in La Liga, where they sit 17th in the table, just above the relegation zone. Their campaign has been marred by inconsistency and a lack of attacking prowess, which has placed them in a precarious position. Having earned only 16 points from 18 matches, Getafe finds itself in a battle for survival in Spain’s top tier. 

While their defensive record has been solid, with only 15 goals conceded—the third-best in La Liga—their inability to score has been a glaring weakness. Getafe has managed to find the back of the net just 11 times this season, the lowest tally in the league. This lack of firepower has cost them crucial points, including in their last two matches before the winter break, where they suffered consecutive defeats to Atlético Madrid and Mallorca. These losses have compounded their struggles and increased the pressure on head coach José Bordalás to turn things around.

Historically, Getafe has had a stronger presence in the Copa del Rey compared to Granada, having reached the final twice. Their most notable runs came in 2006-07 and 2007-08, with the latter being their most recent appearance in the tournament’s showpiece event. On both occasions, however, they fell short of lifting the trophy. Despite their past successes, the Copa del Rey is unlikely to be a priority for Getafe this season. Avoiding relegation remains their primary focus, as staying in La Liga is crucial for the club’s financial stability and long-term plans. Nevertheless, a defeat to a lower-division side like Granada would be a disappointing outcome and could further dent the team’s morale.

To reach this stage of the 2024-25 Copa del Rey, Getafe has already navigated two rounds, securing victories over lower-league opponents. However, their performances in those matches have not been particularly convincing, reflecting the team’s broader struggles. This lack of form could leave them vulnerable against a Granada side brimming with confidence and eager to capitalize on home advantage.

Friday’s match promises to be a fascinating battle between two teams with differing trajectories. Granada’s momentum and determination to prove themselves against top-flight opposition will be key factors in their approach. Playing at the Nuevo Estadio de Los Cármenes, with the support of their passionate fanbase, provides an added boost for the hosts. On the other hand, Getafe will need to draw on their defensive solidity to counter Granada’s attacking intent, while hoping to address their scoring woes.

Both teams understand the stakes of this encounter. For Granada, a victory would not only secure a place in the next round but also reinforce their belief that they are capable of competing against La Liga opponents—a crucial psychological edge as they aim for promotion. For Getafe, progression in the Copa del Rey could serve as a morale booster and a welcome distraction from their league struggles, even if it isn’t a primary objective.

The history between the two clubs adds an additional layer of intrigue to the contest. Getafe’s dominance in recent meetings will undoubtedly play on Granada’s mind, but Fran Escribá’s side will be determined to break that pattern and make a statement on Friday. Meanwhile, José Bordalás and his team will aim to use their experience and defensive organization to navigate what promises to be a challenging encounter.

As the teams prepare for this crucial clash, the Copa del Rey once again demonstrates its ability to produce captivating matchups and unexpected outcomes. Whether it’s the underdog’s dream or the favorite’s determination, the competition continues to captivate fans and deliver memorable moments. The stage is set for a thrilling night at the Nuevo Estadio de Los Cármenes, where Granada and Getafe will battle for a place in the last 16 and the chance to keep their Copa del Rey dreams alive.