Atlético de Madrid will host Alavés at the Metropolitano Stadium, facing a critical moment in the La Liga season as they grapple with their standing in the league. With Diego Simeone’s side currently 11 points behind league leaders Barcelona, and struggling to maintain their competitiveness, the match holds significant importance for both teams. Alavés, managed by Eduardo Coudet, is only two points above the relegation zone, creating a heightened sense of urgency as they head into the second half of the season.
The Madrid club finds itself at a crossroads of belief and doubt this season, hindered by a record of only 13 points gained from 30 available as visitors. However, their home performance has been commendable, boasting an impressive streak of 11 consecutive victories across all competitions, including eight in La Liga. Nevertheless, Atlético’s fourth-place position, with 38 points, feels inadequate given their expectations, especially after having been champions of winter last season before falling off in the months that followed.
In their relentless pursuit of competing for La Liga, the team is not only focused on finishing in Champions League qualification spots but is also trying to make a push for the title despite irregularities in their form when playing away from home. The pressure has somewhat eased following recent events, such as Espanyol’s loss to Girona, which safeguards Atlético’s position by four points, albeit supporters and management believe they should aim higher.
As they prepare to face Alavés, the demanding fixture list with multiple games in quick succession further complicates matters. Simeone may look to rotate key players, granting opportunities for Thiago Almada, who has seen limited playing time, to prove himself, as well as potentially bringing back José María Giménez, who has been absent due to injury. Antoine Griezmann and Johnny Cardoso will also seek to build momentum, especially Griezmann, who has been vital in recent matches.
Conversely, Alavés is on a precarious journey, having suffered six consecutive away losses, dampening their morale. However, recent performances have started to show promise, notably in their cup run despite a setback against Villarreal. The team is hoping to strengthen both their defense and attack during the ongoing winter transfer window as they look to assure safety and climb the standings.
As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, it serves as not just a battle for points but also a test of resilience and strategy under the pressures borne from their respective standings, adding to the rich narrative of competition in La Liga.
The match at the Metropolitano, scheduled for 16:15, promises to be a defining clash for both Atlético Madrid and Alavés as they navigate their contrasting ambitions.