In a clash of desperation and determination, Eibar III and Deportivo Alavés III face off on November 8 at the Estadio Municipal de Ipurua in a showdown that has all the makings of an exhilarating battle for survival in the Tercera División RFEF - Group 4. With only one point separating these two teams, this isn't just another match; it's a critical moment that could define their seasons. Eibar finds itself languishing at 12th place with 10 points from nine games, while Alavés sits just above them with 11 points. Both teams have struggled lately, but they'll know that victory here is vital to stave off relegation fears and reignite hopes for a mid-table push.

Recent form tells a story of contrasting fortunes. Eibar's last five matches show three defeats, one win, and a draw-an unstable foundation as they seek consistency. A distressing pair of back-to-back losses to Aurrerá Vitoria (0-1) and Leioa (0-1) underline their struggle to find the net, highlighting a pressing need for tactical recalibration if they're to harness home advantage effectively. Conversely, Deportivo Alavés III appears to be gaining momentum following two consecutive victories over Añorga (2-0) and Durango (1-0), suggesting an upward trajectory just when it matters most. The key question remains: Can Eibar disrupt Alavés's resurgence before it solidifies?

Breaking down both teams' recent performances unveils several tactical insights worth exploring. Eibar has recorded only five goals across nine matches-painfully inadequate for a team with ambitions beyond mere survival. Their defensive line has been particularly porous, conceding in tight matches which may reflect an overarching issue of confidence rather than skill. They average less than one goal per game while allowing more than one-a recipe for disaster against even marginally proficient opponents like Alavés.

On the flip side, Deportivo Alavés III seems to have discovered some defensive stability alongside improved attacking flair in recent outings; they've managed to keep clean sheets in two of their last three matches while also beginning to convert chances into goals-averaging just over one goal per game since round six of competition. However, their inconsistency remains glaring as illustrated by prior defeats against Aretxabaleta (1-2), where lapses in concentration cost them valuable points.

The critical battle will unfold around the midfield zone where both teams can dictate play; expect high-stakes duels between Eibar's energetic midfielders seeking redemption versus Alavés's disciplined press designed to suffocate opportunities for counter-attacks.

Key players will undoubtedly take center stage here; for Eibar, watch out for Andoni Sola, who displayed flashes of brilliance despite team struggles - he netted two goals during his squad's resurgent performance against Zarautz (4-1). His ability to hold up play will be pivotal as they aim to relieve pressure on their frail defense and carve out scoring chances.

On the other hand, Sergio Laínez is quickly becoming indispensable for Deportivo Alavés III after playing instrumental roles in recent victories with both assists and determined runs upfield that put defenses on the back foot. If he continues this form, coupled with his knack for setting up teammates inside the box, we may see him break through Eibar's barricade.

Analyzing head-to-head encounters does offer hope for either side: Historically speaking, meetings between these sides often yield low-scoring affairs characterized by tightly contested football rather than dominant displays or runaway victories; draws have been prevalent.

Given the present statistics and emerging forms leading into this vital match-up-Eibar grappling under pressure and Deportivo riding newfound optimism-it feels inevitable that this fixture is primed for late drama underpinned by tension-filled stakes on every possession.

With betting odds leaning toward an edge favoring Deportivo Alavés III (-120) based on current form while offering better chances compared to Eibar (+250), expect a dogfight but potentially ultimately decisive goal coming late on as both clubs battle hard until the final whistle blows.

As fans gather at Ipurua ready to witness who truly desires victory more fiercely-mark your calendars; this encounter promises not merely a game but rather chapters written anew in each club's quest within Spain's beautiful game landscape!