Alaves vs Girona: La Liga Clash Preview and Prediction
The Alaves vs Girona La Liga encounter promises to be an intriguing battle as two sides with contrasting ambitions face off this weekend. While Alaves fight to escape the relegation zone, Girona aim to solidify their push for European qualification. With both teams eager for points, this match could deliver plenty of drama.
Alaves Preview: Struggling to Find Consistency
Despite a managerial change, Alaves remain perilously close to the relegation zone. The Basque side parted ways with Luis Garcia Plaza last month, appointing Eduardo Coudet in hopes of revitalizing their campaign. However, results have yet to improve significantly. Under Coudet, Alaves have drawn all four of their matches, including a heartbreaking 2-2 draw against Valencia, where they conceded a 98th-minute penalty.
Coudet’s attacking philosophy has brought some stability, but Alaves desperately need a win to climb away from danger. Their defensive vulnerabilities, coupled with a lack of clinical finishing, have been their Achilles’ heel this season.
Girona Preview: Aiming for European Glory
Girona, on the other hand, continue to punch above their weight. After a sensational third-place finish last season, they qualified for the UEFA Champions League. Despite losing key players in the summer, manager Michel has kept the team competitive. Currently sitting just outside the top seven, Girona remain one of La Liga’s most entertaining sides, known for their attacking flair and resilience.
Their recent form has been inconsistent, but Girona’s ability to score goals makes them a constant threat. A win against Alaves could reignite their European ambitions.
Team News: Key Absences for Both Sides
Alaves Team News: Goalkeeper Crisis
Alaves will be without first-choice goalkeeper Antonio Sivera, who is sidelined with a hand injury. Midfielder Jon Guridi is also a doubt, leaving Coudet with limited options.
Predicted XI (5-4-1):
- Goalkeeper: Jesus Owono
- Defenders: Carlos Vicente, Pica, Abqar, Diarra, Manu Sanchez
- Midfielders: Conechny, Joan Jordan, Antonio Blanco, Carlos Martin
- Striker: Kike
Unavailable: Antonio Sivera (Injured)
Questionable: Jon Guridi (Injured)
Girona Team News: Injury Concerns
Girona will miss the services of Viktor Tsygankov and Bojan Miovski due to injuries. Their absence could impact Girona’s attacking options, but the team still boasts plenty of firepower.
Predicted XI (3-4-3):
- Goalkeeper: Paulo Gazzaniga
- Defenders: David Lopez, Krejci, Blind
- Midfielders (Wing-backs): Arnau Martinez, Miguel Gutierrez
- Central Midfielders: Van de Beek, Ivan Martin
- Forwards: Yaser Asprilla, Abel Ruiz, Bryan Gil
Unavailable: Tsygankov (Injured), Miovski (Injured)
Questionable: None
Alaves vs Girona Prediction: A High-Scoring Affair?
This Alaves vs Girona clash has all the ingredients for an entertaining match. Alaves, under Coudet, are likely to adopt an attacking approach, while Girona’s natural style is to play on the front foot. Both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities, making a high-scoring game a strong possibility.
Prediction: Both teams to score.
Final Score Prediction: Alaves 1-2 Girona
