The highly anticipated LaLiga clash between Deportivo Alaves and Real Madrid promises to showcase contrasting fortunes as the teams meet at Estadio Mendizorroza. Madrid continues their impressive 38-game unbeaten run in LaLiga while sitting second in the table. Meanwhile, Alaves struggle in 17th position with inconsistent performances. Their previous encounters produced entertaining football, including last season’s 2-2 draw at Mendizorroza and Madrid’s comprehensive 5-1 victory at home.
Match time, venue and broadcast details
Football fans can witness this LaLiga encounter at the iconic Estadio Mendizorroza in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain. The stadium’s intimate atmosphere will add intensity to this compelling fixture. Broadcast options vary by region, with television coverage available across multiple networks. Viewers in India can tune into GXR World, while UK audiences have access through Premier Sports and ITV. American fans can stream via ESPN+, and Nigerian supporters can watch on SuperSport. The match takes place amid moderate weather conditions expected at the venue, with the referee appointment pending confirmation. Stadium capacity may reach near-maximum as local supporters rally behind Alaves against the Spanish giants.
Team news and injury updates
Real Madrid’s medical department faces significant challenges with several key players sidelined. Jude Bellingham remains unavailable due to a shoulder issue, joining long-term absentees David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Carvajal, and Eder Militao on the treatment table. Brahim Diaz and Dani Ceballos remain doubtful, requiring late fitness assessments before potential inclusion. Adding to Carlo Ancelotti’s selection headache, Vinicius Junior faces a potential suspension, with a decision still pending from league officials.
In stark contrast, Deportivo Alaves enjoys a relatively clean bill of health ahead of this crucial fixture. Their full squad remains available for selection apart from minor suspension concerns, providing tactical flexibility for their coaching staff against the Spanish giants.
Predicted lineups and tactical analysis
Real Madrid’s expected formation
Madrid will likely deploy their familiar 4-3-3 system despite injury concerns. Thibaut Courtois should continue between the posts, protected by a backline featuring Lucas Vazquez, Antonio Rudiger, Aurelien Tchouameni (deputizing at center-back), and Ferland Mendy. Federico Valverde will anchor midfield alongside Arda Guler and veteran Luka Modric. The attacking trident should feature Rodrygo, Kylian Mbappe (or possibly Endrick), and Vinicius Junior if available.
| Real Madrid Predicted XI (4-3-3) | ||
|---|---|---|
| GK | Courtois | |
| DEF | Vazquez, Rudiger, Tchouameni, Mendy | |
| MID | Valverde, Guler, Modric | |
| ATT | Rodrygo, Mbappe/Endrick, Vinicius | |
Deportivo Alaves’ probable setup
Alaves should counter with a compact 4-2-3-1 formation designed to frustrate Madrid’s attacking flow. Antonio Sivera guards the goal behind defenders Tenaglia, Abqar, Sedlar, and Sanchez. Captain Ander Guevara partners with Jordan in a defensive midfield pairing, while the creative trio of Vicente, Stoichkov, and Martin support lone striker Martinez (or Garcia).
Key tactical battles
The central midfield contest between Valverde and Guevara could determine possession dynamics. Additionally, Alaves’ defensive structure must contain Vinicius and Mbappe’s pace on transition, while Madrid’s makeshift defense faces a stern test against Alaves’ counter-attacking threat.
Current form and season performance
Real Madrid enters this fixture riding impressive momentum with four wins and one draw from their last five matches. Their remarkable 38-game unbeaten LaLiga run demonstrates their consistency despite occasional Champions League distractions. Conversely, Alaves presents a mixed recent record (L-W-L-L-D), typifying their struggle near the relegation zone.
Alaves’ home form raises particular concerns, having suffered three defeats in their last five matches at Mendizorroza. Their possession statistics rank among LaLiga’s lowest, indicating their counter-attacking approach. Madrid must remain wary of the scheduling challenge, as they historically struggle in league fixtures sandwiched between Champions League commitments.
Betting tips and expert prediction
Match odds
- Real Madrid victory: 1.44 (1xBet)
- Draw: 4.50 (average across bookmakers)
- Deportivo Alaves win: 7.20 (average across bookmakers)
- Under 2.5 goals: 2.0 (bet365)
- Both teams to score – No: 1.86 (Winmatch)
Recommended bets
The under 2.5 goals market offers compelling value considering nine of Alaves’ last ten matches finished with fewer than three goals. Additionally, all six of their 2025 fixtures have seen two goals or fewer. Even Madrid’s away form supports this trend, with three of their last five road games producing under 2.5 goals.
| Statistical Trends | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 9/10 Alaves matches: Under 2.5 goals | Under 2.5 goals @ 2.0 |
| All Alaves 2025 matches: Max 2 goals | Under 2.5 goals @ 2.0 |
| 3/5 Madrid away matches: Under 2.5 goals | Under 2.5 goals @ 2.0 |
Final prediction
- Expect Alaves to adopt a defensive approach, frustrating Madrid’s attacking talent
- Madrid should ultimately secure victory through individual quality despite rotation
- Final score prediction: Deportivo Alaves 0-2 Real Madrid