Alaves vs Barcelona predictions for this La Liga clash. Barcelona aims for consecutive La Liga wins against Alaves away on Saturday, continuing their campaign. Will they succeed or it will be more disappointments for them? Read on for our free betting tips and predictions.
La Liga | Gameweek 20 – Feb 3, 2024 at 5.30pm UK at Estadio de Mendizorroza
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Alaves vs Barcelona Predictions
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A Clash of Aspirations: Barcelona’s Title Chase Meets Alaves’s Surge
Key Stats
– Alaves’s transformation has been underscored by four wins in their last five matches, signaling their rise from relegation candidates to mid-table security.
– Barcelona’s injury challenges continue to mount, yet their depth allows them to remain competitive across all fronts.
In a pivotal La Liga encounter, Barcelona travels to Estadio de Mendizorroza to face a resurgent Alaves with high stakes for both clubs. Barcelona, fresh off a narrow win over Osasuna, aims to solidify their top-four standing, while Alaves, buoyed by a triumphant streak, looks to further distance themselves from the relegation fray and perhaps eye a top-10 finish.
The Backdrop
Alaves have been in fine form recently, securing victories against formidable opponents and amassing 10 points from their last four matches. Their transformation under Luis Garcia has been remarkable, propelling them to 11th in the standings. Barcelona, despite a turbulent season marked by Xavi’s impending departure, remains in the hunt for the title, trailing leaders Girona by eight points but with a game in hand that could narrow the gap.
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Tactical Play and Expected Lineups
Alaves, likely without Aleksandar Sedlar and Andoni Gorosabel, will lean on Nahuel Tenaglia to bolster their defence. Samu Omorodion, coming off a stellar performance, will be crucial upfront, supported by Luis Rioja and Carlos Vicente. Their strategy hinges on maintaining a solid defensive shape while exploiting counter-attacking opportunities.
Barcelona’s injury woes continue, with Ferran Torres joining a lengthy list of absentees. Xavi might pivot to Fermin Lopez on the wing, supported by the experienced core of Gundogan, Pedri, and Frenkie de Jong in midfield, aiming to control the game’s tempo and unlock Alaves’s defence through intricate passing and spatial exploitation.
Key Battles and Game Dynamics
The midfield tussle, particularly between Barcelona’s creative engines and Alaves’s combative duo of Blanco and Guevara, could dictate the match’s rhythm. Alaves’s ability to disrupt Barcelona’s build-up play and launch quick counters through Rioja and Vicente against Barcelona’s full-backs, likely Cancelo and Christensen, will be pivotal.
Barcelona’s tactical flexibility and depth, despite injuries, give them an edge, but Alaves’s home form and newfound confidence make them a formidable opponent. The clash will likely be a test of Barcelona’s defensive resilience against Alaves’s attacking flair, especially in wide areas.
Opinionated Analysis
Xavi’s announcement of his departure adds a layer of complexity to Barcelona’s campaign, potentially affecting team morale. However, his tactical acumen has kept Barcelona competitive, even in adversity. The reliance on Lewandowski for goals underscores the need for other players to step up, particularly in Torres’s absence.
Alaves, under Garcia, have shown tactical maturity, transitioning from a relegation-threatened side to mid-table contenders. The key to their success has been a disciplined defence paired with efficient attacking transitions. However, sustaining this form against top-tier teams like Barcelona will be their ultimate test.
Commentary on Expected Lineups
Alaves’s lineup reflects a blend of youth and experience, aiming to continue their fine form through cohesive play and individual brilliance, particularly from Omorodion. Barcelona’s lineup, albeit injury-hit, showcases their depth, with Yamal and F Lopez adding fresh legs to complement the experience of Lewandowski and the creativity of Pedri and Gundogan.
Predictions
- Under/Over 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5 Goals Barcelona’s potent attack, combined with Alaves’s recent offensive form, points towards a high-scoring affair. Both teams’ dynamics suggest an open game with multiple scoring opportunities, making over 2.5 goals a plausible outcome.
- Correct Score Prediction: Alaves 1-3 Barcelona Considering both teams’ current form and Barcelona’s superior squad depth, a 3-1 victory for the visitors seems likely. Barcelona’s attacking prowess should overcome Alaves’s defence, despite the hosts’ capability to find the net.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Robert Lewandowski Lewandowski’s knack for crucial goals and leading role in Barcelona’s attack makes him a prime candidate to score anytime. His positioning and finishing ability could exploit Alaves’s defensive vulnerabilities, especially in set-piece situations.
- First Half Result: Barcelona to Lead Barcelona’s tendency to start strong and Alaves’s potential cautious approach early on could see the visitors take an early lead. Barcelona’s midfield control and attacking intent are likely to translate into a first-half advantage.
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