The phrase "relegation contenders" refers to teams or individuals who are at risk of being demoted or moving to a lower position in a competition or league. Full definition
The mentality to treat games against relegation contenders with the same focus as those against the big boys: that's Lo Stile Juve that I'm talking about. (blackwhitereadallover.com)
The Baggies are strong relegation contenders with an attack that is not creating much. (premiershiptips.com)
Manchester United look to bounce back after a particularly poor performance against West Ham at the weekend by beating relegation contenders Burnley. (caughtoffside.com)