Almansa vs San Clemente - Tercera División RFEF - Group 18

The history between Almansa and San Clemente lends this Tercera División RFEF - Group 18 fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at the home ground on October 18, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. Chelsea take on Serie A giants Juventus in Hong Kong this morning in the latest fixture on their pre-season tour of Asia.

Almansa head into the contest positioned 7th in the Tercera División RFEF - Group 18 standings, while San Clemente arrive sitting 11th. The hosts have been steady if unspectacular, WLWDW in their last five reflecting a win rate of 50%. San Clemente have blown hot and cold, WWLLD across their last five and a season win rate of 33.33%. Their respective approaches this season have differed noticeably, and the tactical contrast could prove telling. Filipe Luis had sought to downplay Monaco's title prospects despite topping the table in France and that pessimism was somewhat explained as his side lost a two-goal lead at home to Toulouse.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Almansa and San Clemente have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. Chelsea have been encouraged to consider a surprise move for Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, with former Red Devils midfielder Quinton Fortune believing the Cameroon international could suit their style of football.

Game-changers are scattered across both line-ups, and the contest may well be decided by which side's match-winners deliver on the day. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. Mikel Arteta has prioritised another versatile defender following injury problems involving William Saliba and Jurriën Timber.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Backed by home advantage and superior form, Almansa ought to prevail — a 3-2 victory looks the logical call. Whatever the outcome, the Tercera División RFEF - Group 18 fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. The win over Liverpool was the first time the team had stepped onto the pitch since the news of the verdict broke.