FC Andorra's Efe Akman Eyes Promotion Play-Offs After 20-Point Surge to Ninth

FC Andorra midfielder Efe Akman has voiced belief in a potential promotion play-off challenge, crediting the team's recent form of 20 points from 27 possible that has lifted them to ninth place with 49 points—nine behind sixth-placed Castelló and 15 clear of the drop zone ahead of seven final matches.

The Istanbul native, son of ex-Galatasaray standout Ayhan Akman—now assistant coach there—has appeared in 15 games this season, switching between defensive midfield and wide roles. "We're playing really well in a great moment, and I think we'll fight for the play-offs," he said. "If there were 10 more games, we'd definitely make it." Akman, contracted until 2029, stressed focusing on Sunday's home fixture against 17th-placed Real Valladolid at Nou Estadi de la FAF, starting at varying reported times of 12:00 or 14:00 or 16:15. He highlighted his adaptability—"I can play both positions"—and added: "I have a lot more to show, maybe in the next matches." He signalled openness to remaining in Andorra next term.

Coach Carles Manso downplayed play-off aspirations, insisting on securing mathematical safety first. "Until it's official, we have to go out to win on Sunday," he said of the challenging visitors, who dropped from Primera División and feature strong individuals under Fran Escribá despite recent upheaval. Manso cautioned against overcommitting: "They'll likely sit deep and counter with their quality players from last season." With Lautaro "Lauti" De León sidelined six weeks by a left biceps femoris injury, Manu Nieto should step in, as Marc Cardona lags since arriving from Las Palmas. Àlex Calvo remains a late call.

Josep Cerdà has driven the upturn, tallying eight goals and two assists over 15 rounds since January after pubis surgery cost him the first 11 games. The Pollença winger, valued at €500,000 with a deal to 2027, has excelled as a false nine, including four goals in his last four appearances. "Those who faced him at Olot in 2a RFEF knew he was already top-class," Manso said, noting Cerdà's finishing and movement. Post-Cádiz win, Cerdà said: "I've always believed in myself, worked hard for this chance, and I'm thrilled to take it."

The surge recalls 2022-23's late charge to seventh under Eder Sarabia, now at Elche. Then, at this stage with 45 points and eight off sixth, they gained 14 from 21 to end on 59. This group holds four more points now, boasts better away record (25 points) but concedes more, alongside higher scoring. Manso praised club backing, staff continuity under Jaume Nogués from the stands, and no permanent head coach. Most hold contracts and would adapt to any role: "We're club people."

The run-in features home dates with Valladolid and Albacete, trips to Leganés and Las Palmas, a home Ceuta clash, then away at Deportivo and Burgos. Manso urged perspective: "Four or five months ago, 49 points here would have been a dream."