La Real easily defeated relegation-threatened Leganes 3-0 at home in San Sebastian to climb to seventh position in the Spanish standings. Their victory over Leganes, which was only their second league win in the previous six games, relieved some mounting pressure as Imanol Alguacil attempts to find his best form at the ideal time of the season.

Additionally, it coincides with a crucial week of play, as they host Real Madrid in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final midweek before travelling to Barcelona for league play on March 2. The fact that defender Nayef Auerd is out for the Real Madrid match after being forced off due to injury against Leganes has already delivered Alguacil a blow. Although the Morocco international will be tested in the next few days, preliminary evaluations indicate that he is also doubtful to play against Barcelona the following weekend.