Alavés is set to host Sevilla tonight in a critical matchup for the Copa del Rey Round of 32 at Estadio de Mendizorroza in Vitoria-Gasteiz. The match will commence at 8:00 PM GMT on December 17, 2025, as both teams aim to progress deeper into Spain’s prestigious knockout competition. Alavés will look to leverage their home advantage against a Sevilla squad grappling with significant injury woes.
Tonight’s fixture in the Copa del Rey features a single-match elimination format, raising the stakes for both sides. The atmosphere at Mendizorroza is expected to be electric, with home fans providing crucial support. Alavés is keen to capitalize on this advantage, particularly as Sevilla enters the match with key players missing due to injuries.
The home team arrives at this match with confidence, having exhibited resilience in earlier Copa del Rey rounds this season under the guidance of manager Matías Almeyda. Alavés has developed a tactical approach focused on maintaining possession and effectively organizing set pieces. They will aim to utilize the width of the pitch and create early scoring opportunities before Sevilla can properly set their defense.
On the other hand, Sevilla finds itself in a challenging position, as they will be without several key defensive players, including Alfon González, César Azpilicueta, Juanlu Sánchez, Kike Salas, and Ramón Martínez. These absences will affect their defensive coordination dramatically, putting additional pressure on Sevilla’s remaining squad members during this pivotal stage of the tournament.
Despite these setbacks, Sevilla’s historical pedigree in the Copa del Rey cannot be dismissed. The team has a record of resilience, which they will need to draw upon in tonight’s clash. However, the test will be significant, as they must showcase their squad depth and tactical adaptability in the face of injuries.
Looking back at their head-to-head record, Sevilla historically holds the advantage with 12 wins to Alavés’ 4, alongside 6 draws. However, the context of a knockout competition creates a unique pressure. The tactical battle will be crucial; Alavés is expected to exploit Sevilla’s vulnerable defensive flanks while focusing on winning aerial challenges and dictating the pace of play.
As Vitoria-Gasteiz prepares for an exhilarating evening, the combined factors of home support and Sevilla’s injury crisis set the stage for what promises to be an intriguing encounter. Alavés hopes that the fervent atmosphere will propel them to victory, but Sevilla’s experience in high-stakes matches remains a formidable element to consider in this knockout showdown.