The match between Real Madrid and Deportivo Alavés is set to be an exciting encounter as both teams are looking to build momentum in the season. Real Madrid, with their rich history and star-studded lineup, are the clear favorites, but Deportivo Alavés, known for their resilience, will be hoping to cause an upset. In this article, we will break down the expected lineups for both teams and analyze the key players who are likely to make an impact.
Real Madrid: Expected Lineup
Real Madrid comes into this match with a squad full of talent, led by their manager Carlo Ancelotti. The team will look to dominate possession and create numerous attacking opportunities, with the likes of Karim Benzema, Vinícius Júnior, and Luka Modrić providing the necessary flair and experience.
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper:
Thibaut Courtois – The Belgian goalkeeper is expected to start in goal for Real Madrid. Courtois is known for his shot-stopping ability, aerial command, and calmness under pressure, making him a vital part of the team’s defense.
Defenders:
Dani Carvajal (Right-back) – Carvajal brings energy and experience to the right flank, offering both defensive stability and offensive support with his crossing ability.
Éder Militão (Centre-back) – Militão is known for his quickness, aerial dominance, and solid defensive positioning. He will be key in containing the opposition’s attackers.
David Alaba (Centre-back) – Alaba provides versatility, leadership, and experience in defense. His ability to read the game and contribute to offensive plays makes him an important asset for the team.
Ferland Mendy (Left-back) – Mendy offers excellent pace and defensive ability on the left side, helping to keep Alavés’ attackers at bay while contributing to Real Madrid’s counter-attacks.
Midfielders:
Luka Modrić (Central Midfield) – Modrić, the Croatian maestro, will be at the heart of Real Madrid’s midfield, dictating the tempo with his passing and vision. His experience is crucial for controlling the game.
Casemiro (Defensive Midfield) – The Brazilian is a ball-winning midfielder who breaks up attacks and shields the defense. Casemiro’s defensive work is vital in protecting Real Madrid’s backline.
Toni Kroos (Central Midfield) – Kroos is a deep-lying playmaker, known for his precision passing and ability to dictate the flow of the game. He will look to link defense and attack with his exceptional range of passes.
Forwards:
Rodrygo Goes (Right Wing) – Rodrygo’s pace and dribbling make him a constant threat on the right wing. He will look to cut inside and create chances for his teammates.
Karim Benzema (Striker) – The French striker is Real Madrid’s focal point in attack. Benzema’s finishing, hold-up play, and link-up abilities will be key to breaking down Alavés’ defense.
Vinícius Júnior (Left Wing) – Vinícius Júnior’s electric pace and skill on the left wing make him one of Real Madrid’s most dangerous attackers. His ability to take on defenders and create chances will be crucial in this match.
Deportivo Alavés: Expected Lineup
Deportivo Alavés, managed by Luis García, will look to keep things tight defensively and hit Real Madrid on the counter-attack. The team’s lineup is likely to be compact, with a focus on maintaining defensive shape and exploiting spaces when possible. While Alavés may not have the star power of Real Madrid, they can still provide a tough challenge.
Formation: 4-4-2
Goalkeeper:
Fernando Pacheco – Pacheco is a reliable goalkeeper who will be tasked with stopping the barrage of attacks that are expected from Real Madrid. His shot-stopping ability and leadership will be key for Alavés.
Defenders:
Ximo Navarro (Right-back) – Navarro is a solid defender who can get forward when needed. He will need to be defensively disciplined to contain Real Madrid’s wingers.
Víctor Laguardia (Centre-back) – Laguardia brings experience and aerial strength to Alavés’ defense. His job will be to deal with Real Madrid’s attacking players, especially the likes of Benzema and Vinícius.
Florian Lejeune (Centre-back) – Lejeune, a physically strong center-back, will partner Laguardia in the heart of the defense. His positional awareness and toughness will be important in handling Real Madrid’s attacks.
Rubén Duarte (Left-back) – Duarte will look to limit the influence of Vinícius Júnior on the left wing. His defensive stability and occasional support in attack will be crucial for Alavés.
Midfielders:
Luis Rioja (Left Midfield) – Rioja is one of Alavés’ key attacking outlets. His pace and dribbling ability make him dangerous on the counter, and he will look to exploit any spaces in Real Madrid’s defense.
Tomas Pina (Central Midfield) – Pina is the engine in the middle of the park for Alavés. His ability to break up opposition attacks and distribute the ball will be essential for their counter-attacking strategy.
Álex Fernández (Central Midfield) – Fernández provides creativity and passing quality in the midfield. His job will be to link up play and try to supply the forwards with good service.
Javi López (Right Midfield) – López will be tasked with supporting the attack and providing width on the right side. His ability to deliver quality crosses will be key if Alavés hopes to create chances.
Forwards:
Joselu (Striker) – Joselu is Alavés’ main target man. The Spanish striker is strong in the air and is a clinical finisher. He will be central to Alavés’ plans in attack, aiming to hold the ball up and create chances for his teammates.
Juan Rodríguez (Striker) – Rodríguez partners Joselu in attack. His movement and pace will be important for stretching Real Madrid’s defense and looking for through balls.
Key Matchups and Insights
Real Madrid’s Attacking Prowess vs Alavés’ Defense
Real Madrid has one of the most potent attacking units in Europe, with Karim Benzema, Vinícius Júnior, and Rodrygo leading the charge. Deportivo Alavés will need to be at their defensive best to withstand this attacking force. The key battle will be in Alavés’ defensive third, where Víctor Laguardia and Florian Lejeune will need to match the physicality and movement of Benzema.
Midfield Control
Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić are two of the best midfielders in world football. Their ability to control the tempo and create chances will be crucial for Real Madrid. Alavés will need to disrupt their rhythm and rely on players like Tomas Pina and Álex Fernández to break up play and provide quick transitions.
Counter-Attack Opportunities for Alavés
While Real Madrid will dominate possession, Deportivo Alavés will look to capitalize on the counter-attack, especially through Luis Rioja and Javi López. Their pace and ability to create space will be essential in getting the ball forward quickly and catching Real Madrid’s defense off guard.
Looking Ahead
This match gives Real Madrid a chance to assert dominance and continue their push for top honors. Deportivo Alavés will aim to frustrate their opponents and capitalize on any opportunities. It will be interesting to see how Ancelotti sets up his team to break down Alavés’ defense and whether the Basque club can pose a serious challenge.
FAQs
What time does the Real Madrid vs Deportivo Alavés match start?
The match time will depend on your location, so it’s best to check your local listings for the exact kick-off time.
Where can I watch Real Madrid vs Deportivo Alavés?
The match will be broadcast on major sports networks like ESPN, BeIN Sports, and LaLiga TV. Check local providers for availability.
Who are the key players for Real Madrid?
Karim Benzema, Vinícius Júnior, and Luka Modrić will be crucial for Real Madrid in this match.
How will Deportivo Alavés play against Real Madrid?
Alavés will likely adopt a defensive approach, focusing on counter-attacks and set pieces while trying to limit the impact of Real Madrid’s attacking players.
Can Deportivo Alavés pull off an upset?
While Real Madrid is the favorite, Deportivo Alavés has the ability to frustrate the bigger teams, especially with their counter-attacking style and solid defense.
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