Cordoba C.F. vs Almeri preview - Djukic: Almeria game is a "final"

Cordoba coach Miroslav is relishing Sunday's clash with fellow strugglers Almeria.

Just one point and one league position separates the two teams in the bottom five of La Liga, and the Serbian coach believes it is a game his side must win.

"For us every game is a final and that's how we need to approach it," Djukic told a press conference.

"We have to give everything in every game, and Almeria are in the fight for survival alongside us and we are very aware of the importance of this game. Almeria are in the same position as us and we'll be fighting against a team that is very similar to us."

The former Valencia boss is also prepared for a difficult playing surface following adverse weather conditions this week in Spain.

"We'll be battling each other on the pitch and the only thing that matters is what happens on the green grass, if indeed it is green, because it could end up being yellow," joked the coach.

"But the pitch is what it is and that should not be an excuse, although it does not mean it won't be inconvenient for us."

Cordoba have been given a boost by the absence of Almeria's top scorer Tomer Hemed due to suspension as the Israeli striker was sent off in the 1-0 win over Getafe last week, having provided the assist for Edgar Mendez's winning goal.

However, Djukic said Hemed's absence was offset by the presence of forward Thievy Bifouma, who is once again available to Almeria coach Juan Ignacio Martinez after returning from the African Nations Cup.

"Hemed is an important player for them but they have Thievy back and he is very quick and works well when given space," said Djukic.

"Almeria also have the long passes of (Fernando) Soriano and they have quick players on the wings, and they are also good at deadball situations."

Almeria are also still without goalkeeper Ruben Martinez, while midfielder Verza is a doubt with a muscle problem.

Cordoba are without Luso, Fidel Chaves and Inigo Lopez, but Djukic said new midfield signings Bruno Zuculini and Rene Krhin could make their debuts for the club.