Atletico Madrid vs Alaves: La Liga Clash Preview

Atletico Madrid will aim to secure their fifth consecutive victory in all competitions as they host Alaves in a La Liga match at the Estadio Civitas Metropolitano on Saturday afternoon. This fixture comes as part of Gameweek 14 in the Spanish top-flight league.

Diego Simeone‘s team is currently positioned third in the La Liga standings, trailing second-place Real Madrid by just one point and leaders Barcelona by seven points. Atletico has garnered 26 points from 13 matches, boasting a solid defense that has conceded only seven goals, the best defensive record in the league.

Despite notable setbacks in the Champions League, including significant losses to Benfica and Lille, Atletico Madrid’s domestic form has been largely stable. The team recently secured a key 2-1 triumph over Paris Saint-Germain, bolstering their confidence. Additionally, Atletico defeated Mallorca 1-0 in their latest La Liga encounter.

At the other end of the table, Alaves finds themselves in 15th place with 13 points, just three points clear of the relegation zone. The team has struggled this season with four wins, one draw, and eight losses comprising their campaign thus far. Notably, Alaves have achieved an away win only once this season.

In terms of team news, Atletico will be without one of their key players due to a persistent muscular issue. However, there is optimism surrounding the return of others, including a player recovering from a head injury sustained in the Madrid derby.

Alaves, managed by head coach Luis García, also faces injury challenges. Two of their players remain unavailable, but the team is otherwise in good shape. Ahead of this match, García may introduce tactical changes, especially considering Alaves’ recent 3-0 defeat to Villarreal.

Atletico Madrid is expected to field a strong lineup featuring Jan Oblak in goal and Antoine Griezmann in attack. Meanwhile, Alaves might start with a lineup including Fernando Pacheco and Lucas Perez in crucial roles as they aim to replicate past successes against Atletico.