La Liga
Deportivo Alavés vs Real Madrid Preview
Sixth-placed Alavés welcome Real Madrid to the Mendizorrotza on Saturday at 12:30pm EDT. The visitors find themselves on the road once again after a disappointing mid-week loss to CSKA Moscow in the UCL group stage.
‘Los Blancos’ are eager to get back on track after losing three of their previous four matches, scoring in none. Although Alavés are undefeated at home, the team has struggled defensively since the start of the season.
Team News
Saturday’s hosts continue to be without center back Rodrigo Ely who is out with injury. Additionally, wingers Burgui and Patrick Twumasi may or may not be options off the bench. Burgui having exited the previous match with a minor injury. As a result, both players will be assessed by coach Abelardo Fernández for match fitness by Friday.
Likewise, Madrid coach Julen Lopetegui continues to be without several players. Whereas forward Gareth Bale may be fit in time to make the squad list, Isco and Marcelo will continue to recover in the Spanish capital. However, team captain Sergio Ramos is almost certain to return to the starting eleven. Defender Dani Carvajal remains a doubt.
Lineups and Prediction
Alavés: Pacheco; Martin, Laguardia, Maripan, Duarte; Ibai Gomez, Pina, Manu Garcia, Jony; Ruben Sobrino, Guidetti
Real Madrid: Courtois; Odriozola, Ramos, Varane, Nacho; Ceballos, Casemiro, Kroos; Vazquez, Benzema, Asensio
Obviously, on paper Lopetegui’s men are the superior side. Although that may be the case, context demands a closer look. Currently, Benzema and co appear to be incapable of putting the ball into the back of the net. Unless that changes, the hosts can and will add to their opponents ongoing nightmare.
Nevertheless, a visit to the Basque club may be just what the doctor ordered for the Spanish giants. Alavés have not defeated Madrid in eighteen years. Furthermore, Fernández’s men have conceded eight goals in seven matches so far. Meanwhile, Real have created 62 shots on goal in their previous three matches despite not scoring one.
It is realistic to think that the team’s drought will end on Saturday’s visit to Alavés. Expect the visitor’s possession to pay off this time. Effectually putting pressure on rivals Barcelona and Atletico de Madrid who face Valencia and Real Betis respectively on Sunday.
Deportivo Alavés 1 – 3 Real Madrid
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Photo credit to Real Madrid via Flickr
