The build-up to the match against Real Sociedad II is defined by respect for a formidable opponent. Jon Ansotegi, the coach of the Basque reserve team, has explained that facing RCD Mallorca represents a valuable test for his players, an exam that can measure their progression towards the elite.

The Balearic side, sitting third in the Segunda División table with ten points, arrives at the fixture following a 2-0 win over Sabadell. Ansotegi acknowledged the qualities of a team that recently played in a Copa del Rey final and has high-level players. "Playing against rivals like Darder or Raíllo brings us closer to the Primera División," said the coach. "The opponent comes from the top flight, with several who have played at a great level."

A match with personal flavour

For the Sanse manager, the duel also has a personal element. "A special match for me, yes. I have friends on the island, the captain played with me, many memories but from minute 0 to 90..." Ansotegi noted. Despite these connections, his approach is entirely competitive, aware of the difficulty posed by facing an established squad with top-tier experience. "They are a very well-worked team, with a clear idea, and that is precisely what our lads need to see," he added.

The reserve team's status

Ansotegi reviewed his squad's situation ahead of the match. He confirmed that players Sydney and Calderón have not recovered and are not training with the group. On a positive note, he mentioned that Ayo has been training for a week and a half and that Oleaga already played this past Tuesday. The coach also spoke about the progress of some of his footballers, like Rupérez, and noted that Iñaki still needs to improve to become a full-back for Real Sociedad.

Mallorca, with their forward Fuentes as the season's top scorer with three goals, will look to maintain their good form in the competition. Real Sociedad B, for their part, approaches the match aiming to add points to get closer to the promotion spots, aware that every game is a learning opportunity. The Basque team has a target of reaching 180 minutes of effective possession per match and improving their average of 1.2 points per game in this phase of the season. Their next fixture after this will be a visit to Leganés's ground.

The match takes place this Saturday, 19 September, at the reserve team's stadium, with the hosts currently in ninth place.

This story first appeared at Mundo Deportivo