UD Las Palmas welcomes Málaga CF this Sunday for the first leg of the promotion playoff semi-final, a crucial match to be held at the Estadio de Gran Canaria at 8:00 PM. The home team aims to make a strong statement and secure a significant advantage for the return leg.

Historically, Málaga has been a tough opponent for UD Las Palmas this season, as they failed to beat them or score against them in their two regular season encounters. The Málaga side won 0-1 at Siete Palmas and 2-0 in the return match, which involved some controversy.

However, the atmosphere is different now, and the past counts for nothing in a playoff tie where only one team will advance. UD Las Palmas will try to impose their game from the start, aware of Málaga's strength at home, especially since the arrival of Funes to the Andalusian bench.

Captain Jonathan Viera highlighted the team's experience in promotion playoffs, a factor that could favor UD Las Palmas against a Málaga side with a younger squad and less experience in such confrontations.

Regarding the lineups, no major surprises are expected. Coach Luis García is likely to stick with the usual starting eleven, although Sergio Barcia and Viti Rozada are out due to injury. Players like Sandro, Loiodice, and Recoba have long been ruled out for the season.

Regardless of the outcome of these first ninety minutes, UD Las Palmas must display heart, ambition, and pride to aspire to promotion to Spain's top flight, a goal that goes beyond simply having possession and playing good football.

The potential lineups are: UD Las Palmas with Horkas; Marvin Park, Álex Suárez, Mika Mármol, Enrique Clemente; Amatucci, Kirian; Miyashiro, Manu Fuster, Pedrola; and Jesé. For Málaga CF: Alfonso Herrero; Puga, Murillo, Einar Galilea, Rafita; Larrubia, Izan Merino, Dotor, Joaquín; Dani Lorenzo, and Chupete. The match will be officiated by referee Andrés Fuentes Molina from the Valencian committee.