Alaves vs Espanyol: Predictions, Team Updates, and Lineups
On Sunday afternoon, Alaves will host Espanyol at Campo de Fútbol de Mendizorrotza for a key La Liga match. Espanyol is currently positioned fifth in the league standings, accumulating 18 points from 10 matches. In contrast, Alaves sits in 12th place with 12 points gained from their first ten games.
Match Preview: Alaves vs Espanyol
Alaves enters this match following a significant victory in the Copa del Rey, where they scored seven goals without reply against Deportivo Getxo. However, in their last La Liga outing, they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano. The team has managed only one win in their last six league games, indicating a tough run.
Despite a positive defensive record—having conceded just nine goals—Alaves struggles offensively, with only nine goals scored. Historically, Alaves has won 14 of their last 40 encounters against Espanyol, though their last home victory against them came in May 2022.
Espanyol’s Form
Espanyol comes into the match with aspirations of securing their fourth consecutive win across all competitions. They have shown impressive form this season, with five wins, three draws, and two losses, placing them just four points behind second-placed Barcelona. Recently, Espanyol triumphed 2-1 over Atletic Lleida in the Copa del Rey, ensuring their progress to the next round.
In away matches, Espanyol has managed to earn five points from four games, while Alaves has acquired eight points in their first five home matches this season.
Team News
- Alaves: Jon Pacheco is sidelined due to injury. Key player Carlos Vicente has scored five goals this season.
- Espanyol: Javi Puado is still out with an injury. Kike Garcia and Pere Milla have each netted four goals and will spearhead the attack.
Predicted Lineups
| Alaves | Espanyol |
|---|---|
| Sivera; Jonny, Tenaglia, Parada, Enriquez; Vicente, Calebe, Suarez, Alena; Boye, Martinez | Dmitrovic; El Hilali, Riedel, Cabrera, Romero; Carreras, Lozano, Exposito, Milla; Garcia, Fernandez |
In conclusion, while Alaves has a solid defense, they are expected to face challenges from a quality Espanyol side that seeks to continue their winning momentum. The prediction leans towards a narrow victory for Espanyol, potentially ending 1-0.