La Liga
Real Madrid vs Alaves Preview
Third placed Real Madrid host Alaves in La Liga and look to continue their winning streak by grabbing three points on Sunday. Head coach Santiago Solari will be grateful to have no major injury concerns entering what will be a season defining month for the Spanish giants.
Alaves have had a dream year so far and currently sit fifth in the league, only seven points behind their opponents. Despite their success so far, the Basque club have only managed to win two of their previous ten matches in all competitions. Therefore, a draw will not be enough.
Team News
As previously stated, Los Blancos are without any major injury concerns. However, both Raphael Varane and Dani Carvajal will be suspended for the match. As a result, filling in for the defenders will most likely be Alvaro Odriozola and Nacho. With upcoming matches against Barcelona and Atletico de Madrid, some starters may be rested by Solari. Although the need for points may deny the Argentine’s wishes.
On the other hand, Alaves will have to do without the services of two defenders due to injury. Namely Rodrigo Ely and Adrian Marin. The Brazilian center back is out with a knee injury while Marin suffers from a muscle problem. Midfielder Tomas Pina missed out last match due to suspension but will be available for manager Abelardo on Sunday.
Lineups and Prediction
Real Madrid: Courtois; Odriozola, Nacho, Ramos, Reguilon; Modric, Kroos, Casemiro; Bale, Benzema, Asensio
Alaves: Pacheco; Martin, Laguardia, Maripan, Duarte; Wakaso, M Garcia, Pina, Burgui; Baston, Calleri
While the two sides have met a total of seventeen times, the whites have won thirteen. With the remaining four consisting of two wins for Alaves and two draws. Nevertheless, one of Alaves’ victories came against this same Madrid side last October. Abelardo’s men may have been chosen to stage another upset in the Bernabeu if not for a rough transfer window.
Rather, Los Babazorros most likely face another defeat in the Spanish capital due to the loss of key players in January. Specifically, striker Rubén Sobrino and winger Ibai Gomez among others. As a result, the visitors may need more time to adjust before keeping up with the whites at home. Especially with striker Karim Benzema in such good form.
Expect the Frenchman to hit the back of the net at least once as Madrid extend their winning streak to five.
Real Madrid 3 – 0 Alaves
Photo credit to Real Madrid via Twitter
