The La Liga tie between Deportivo Alavés and FC Barcelona was yet another game that awaited much in the league as Barcelona looked to take a larger lead on the summit of the league table. Played at the Estadio de Mendizorroza, it was one of those events that would clearly reflect the playing spirit in La Liga, especially as Alavés’ structured defense went head-to-head with the attacking zest of Barcelona.
Deportivo Alavés vs FC Barcelona Lineups
More than anything else, lineups will play a role in determining the dynamics of any game, and both sides approach this clash with well-planned formations.
Deportivo Alavés Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Antonio Sivera
- Defenders: Nahuel Tenaglia, Abdallahi Mahmoud, Álex Balboa, RubénDuarte
- Midfielders: Antonio Blanco, Ander Guevara, Luis Rioja
- Attackers: Carlos Vicente, Stoichkov, Kike García
Key focus: Alavés played safely while forcing the midfield as they advanced in search of a breakaway. Stoichkov and Luis Rioja ensured sufficient dynamism at attack and terrorized opponents on the break.
FC Barcelona Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Marc-André ter Stegen
- Defenders: Alejandro Balde, Jules Koundé, Ronald Araújo, João Cancelo
- Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong, İlkay Gündoğan, Pedri
- Attackers: Robert Lewandowski, João Félix, Lamine Yamal
Key Focus: Barcelona relied on their trident of Lewandowski, Félix, and Yamal for a breakthrough against Alavés’ defense. De Jong, Gündoğan, and Pedri conducted play from midfield.
FC Barcelona vs Deportivo Alavés Team News
Deportivo Alavés News
Alavés went into the game with injuries in defence. They started missing their main centreback, Abdel Abqar, therefore, the team had to go slightly low in their backline. However, most of their best men-that involved Luis Rioja and Stoichkov showed Alavés how to break into attack, making them forcefulness in Barcelona’s weaker areas.
FC Barcelona News
Barcelona were on high spirits after a thumping win in the Champions League where the visitors were led by a brace from Robert Lewandowski. But Ferran Torres and Raphinha missed this game due to minor fitness issues. Their manager Xavi Hernández relied on the youth of Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde, along with the senior legs in Lewandowski, and Gündoğan.
Deportivo Alavés vs FC Barcelona Match Prediction
Prediction: 3 – 1 Benefit FC Barcelona, since they have a better run of form, bench strength, and flexibility on attack.
Players That Are Expected to Feature a Lot
- Alavés: Stoichkov – He was key for Alavés’ counter-attacking strategy through his swift movement and finishes.
- Barcelona: Robert Lewandowski – His past has proven that he is one of the top strikers, so he can be expected to spearhead the attack by trying to take away goal options from the other team.
Deportivo Alavés vs FC Barcelona Preview
Barcelona plays with a very high-tempo attacking style which is supposed to result in an overload of Alavés, forcing quick transitions and interplay. Against this, Alavés set up a structured defense towards the Barcelona attack, with two major strategies:
- Central passing lanes are cut off to try to disturb the Barcelona build-up.
- Anticipating with Luis Rioja and Stoichkov, two players who get behind the full backs when they moved forward from their channels.
The duel in midfield between İlkay Gündoğan and Ander Guevara will be well contested by both players looking to control the tempo of play and dictate the game.
Key Moments to Anticipate
- Barcelona’s Early High Press: Cancelo and Balde were pushing up forward and set up to score early and dominate.
- Alavés Defensive Resolve: Antonio Sivera led a back line that pulled off an incredible defensive shift.
- Individual Genius: With João Félix and Lamine Yamal, one had high hopes that such brilliance and flair would come to light individually.
Conclusion
Deportivo Alavés vs FC Barcelona, Lastly, the contest of La Liga was at its best. Here, to win the title title and earn the victory, Barcelona were pitted against an unwilling Alavés who fought hard enough for the Catalans to really work for their points.
This encounter reflected what was beautiful about Spanish football when the tactical brilliance, individual skills, and those moments of pure unpredictability can be harnessed at best. There were sure spectators to be given the most exciting spectacle proving that La Liga is still one of the world’s most captivating leagues.
Also read about: Arsenal vs Liverpool F.C. Lineups, Team News, Predictions and Preview
