In a match that promises to be a nail-biter, Alavés and Celta Vigo clash at Estadio Mendizorrotza on November 22. Both teams are locked in a fierce struggle for survival in La Liga, separated by just two points and plagued by inconsistency. Alavés sits at 10th with 15 points while Celta languishes in 13th with a mere 13. In this high-stakes encounter, one team's fleeting momentum could become the other's stumbling block.
Predicted Lineups
Both coaches will lean on their preferred formations to set the tone of the game: Alavés: GK: Antonio Sivera, DEF: Youssef Enriquez Lekhedim, Nahuel Tenaglia, Jonny Otto, Victor Parada, MID: Carles Aleñá, Antonio Blanco, Denis Suárez; FWD: Lucas Boyé, Toni Martínez. Celta Vigo: GK: Ionuț Radu, DEF: Marcos Alonso, Carl Starfelt, Javi Rodríguez; MID: Sergio Carreira, Óscar Mingueza; FWD: Bryan Zaragoza, Borja Iglesias, Ferran Jutglà.
Recent Form and Trends
Alavés comes into this match after an erratic spell: they managed a confidence-boosting victory against Espanyol but faltered against Girona and Rayo Vallecano. Statistically speaking, they dominate possession-boasting an average of over 55% across their last five matches. However, their inability to convert that control into tangible results has been glaring. They outshot their opponents significantly in several fixtures but struggled with clinical finishing-a trend highlighted in their recent matches where they've averaged around 1.06 expected goals (xG) yet only managed to score consistently.
On the other hand, Celta Vigo appears to be pulling themselves up from the abyss after enduring a series of disappointing results leading to multiple draws. A standout performance against Dinamo Zagreb showcased what they're capable of when they find their rhythm-delivering an emphatic 3-0 win in UEFA Europa League play while utilizing high pressing effectively. However, defensively they've shown cracks too often against stronger sides like Barcelona-conceding four goals without managing to mitigate the threat adequately.
This sets up a compelling tactical battle: Alavés' focus on maintaining ball possession will clash against Celta's propensity for quick transitions and counter-attacks led by players like Iago Aspas, who can turn half-chances into scoring opportunities with his awareness and poise.
Key Tactical Insights
Statistical trends from both sides illustrate some pivotal areas that could sway this match's outcome:
- Alavés has exhibited more offensive intent based on total shots per match (averaging around 12). Yet they have been hampered by poor shot accuracy-only about 47% of their attempts have hit the target.
- Conversely, Celta's defense will be tested here; they've conceded over two goals per game against top opposition lately. Their defensive structure is likely designed to absorb pressure and strike quickly-a tactic that's paid off in previous matches despite yielding mixed results overall.
One cannot ignore how both teams approach set-pieces either-Celta's defense recorded four yellow cards last time out versus Barcelona due to foul play stemming from frustration under pressure-this presents an opportunity for Alavés' attackers who have shown resilience when given free-kick scenarios around the box.
Among key players for Alavés is forward Lucas Boyé, whose presence inside the box is essential if Alavés hopes to maximize goal-scoring chances built on sustained possession play. Meanwhile for Celta Vigo, look no further than Borja Iglesias-a player who's already netted seven times this season-is capable of breaking open tight defenses if given space.
The Hot Take Prediction
Given these conflicting styles and trends as we head toward kickoff-the edge must go slightly towards Alavés owing to home advantage coupled with better form metrics leading into this clash. While both squads possess strengths worthy enough for each point garnered thus far-the desperate need for victory should propel Alavés past a cautious Celta side still wrestling with identity amidst turbulent waters.
Expect a final scoreline leaning towards Alavés' favor; perhaps 2-1 or even greater if they capitalize on critical moments and maintain efficiency rather than squandering good opportunities as has been common lately! This fixture isn't just about securing points-it's about proving character as we move deeper into what's shaping up as another unpredictable La Liga season!