Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 14, 2024 3:14 am GMT
Real Madrid is set to face Deportivo Alavés in a highly anticipated La Liga match on Tuesday, amid an ongoing quest to keep up with rivals Barcelona. The clash at Santiago Bernabéu comes off the back of a dominant performance where Madrid secured a 4-1 victory over Espanyol last weekend. With each passing match, the stakes grow higher, especially with Barcelona currently on a winning streak.
But as the season progresses, internal challenges arise for Real Madrid. Coach Carlo Ancelotti will need to navigate a tight schedule effectively, particularly with a crucial derby against Atletico Madrid looming just days after this match.
Team News and Injury Updates
Real Madrid enters the match with some encouraging news surrounding their injury list. Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni have been significant in recent games, both starting the last two matches. However, Bellingham took a knock to his shoulder against Espanyol and could be rested for this encounter.
Several players are still either sidelined or are nursing injuries:
- Eduardo Camavinga: Out with an MCL injury
- Dani Ceballos: Ankle issue
- Brahim Diaz: Hamstring injury
- David Alaba: Long-term absence
- Dani Carvajal: Recently suffered an ankle injury; his status remains uncertain, but Lucas Vazquez is ready to step in.
This gives Ancelotti the opportunity to make strategic changes. For instance, Vinicius Junior and Endrick, who were benched last game, are in line to start.
In terms of lineup, Real Madrid is expected to form a 4-3-3 setup:
- Goalkeeper: Courtois
- Defenders: Vazquez, Militão, Rudiger, Mendy
- Midfielders: Valverde, Tchouaméni, Güler
- Forwards: Rodrygo, Mbappé, Vinicius
Deportivo Alavés: The Underdog with Potential
Alavés has quietly made a mark early in the season, currently sitting at seventh in La Liga. They recently secured their third win with a notable victory against Sevilla, signifying that they are not to be underestimated.
Coach Luis Garcia Plaza’s squad does have one notable availability issue, with goalkeeper Jesus Owono out due to a muscular injury. Still, the team boasts players like Carlos Vicente and Toni Martinez, both responsible for scoring two goals each this season. Their potential will be critical as Alavés looks to capitalize on any inconsistencies from Madrid.
The predicted lineup for Alavés features a 4-2-3-1 formation:
- Goalkeeper: Sivera
- Defenders: Tenaglia, Abqar, Sedlar, Sanchez
- Midfielders: Guevara, Jordan
- Forwards: Vicente, Stoichkov, Martin, Martinez
Matchday Context and Expectations
As Los Blancos prepare to face Alavés, it’s pivotal they remain focused despite the distractions of upcoming derby week. The team’s thick schedule necessitates effective rotation and management of player fatigue. Ancelotti’s decision to rest key players could ultimately affect the flow of the game, but may also preserve vital energy for the upcoming Atletico clash.
Despite Real Madrid’s storied history and strong performances, Alavés showed glimpses of their competitiveness this season. They can exploit any lapses in Madrid’s concentration and will look to take full advantage of any errors.
The match not only has implications for the title race but will also provide an insight into how effectively Real Madrid can juggle a tight fixture schedule while maintaining form.
With anticipation building around the encounter, fans expect fierce determination from both teams. The match begins at a decisive moment in La Liga, particularly for Madrid, who seek to recover ground lost to their rivals.
How to Watch
For those looking to catch the action, the match will be available to stream live via ESPN+ in the United States, allowing fans to witness every moment of the La Liga showdown.
As Real Madrid meets Deportivo Alavés, the outcome could serve as a catalyst in their pursuit of glory this season. Will they maintain their momentum, or will Alavés stun the giants? Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this match unfolds.
As the excitement grows in La Liga, everyone is watching Real Madrid. How well they take care of their players and use smart strategies will be very important for their game against the rising team, Deportivo Alavés. The pressure is on, and what happens next is hard to guess!
