Deportivo La Coruña

Deportivo La Coruna lost at home to Real Madrid in the league last weekend for the first time in 18 years. The Galicians' brilliant run against Spain's biggest club came to an end as they tamely went down 3-1 at Riazor. Nevertheless, Deportivo remains in sixth place following what has been an excellent first half of the campaign. Financial problems at the club meant coach Miguel Angel Lotina was unable to sign any players during the recent transfer window. Lotina had asked for a replacement for injured full-back Filipe Luis, who will be out for the rest of the season after suffering a horrendous injury against Athletic Bilbao two weeks ago. Pablo Alvarez is doubtful for Sunday's trip to Malaga, but Andres Guardado and Sergio Gonzalez have recovered faster than expected from their respective injuries and could play.