Date: 6th October, 2024
Venue: Mendizorroza, Vitoria-Gasteiz

Competition: La Liga

Overview:

FC Barcelona travel across the border to square up against Deportivo Alavés at the Mendizorroza in what will be an important La Liga encounter. With Hansi Flick at the helm, Barcelona are looking to keep their good run going, while Alavés look for an upset at home.

Deportivo Alavés:

Alavés have gone into this match with a pretty mixed start to their season. They are positioned mid-table and have shown resilience at home, though still struggling to find consistency up front. The structure of the defense will be key, as they look to frustrate Barcelona before catching them on the counterattack.

Key Player:

Carlos Vicente – Probably Alavés’ most creative outlet – pacy and creative – will look to test Barcelona’s full-backs.

FC Barcelona:

Barcelona are delighted after an exciting start to the season. Other than the injuries to main men like Gavi, everything has been well adapted in Flick’s new system. With a good mix of experience and youth, Barcelona will want to dominate possession and press high. In Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, Barcelona will have both pivotal players in front while Lewandowski is in good touch, too.

Key Player:
Lamine Yamal – The young winger has been electric this season, with his dribbling and flair causing problems for defenders. He may prove to be important in breaking the Alavés defense.

Tactical Battle:
Alavés will most probably sit deep, trying to release quick transitions with the view to exploit spaces that might be left due to Barcelona’s high defensive line. Similarly, Barcelona will try to dominate midfield and find wide areas to exploit. This battle between Alavés’ defense and Barcelona’s attacking movement could define the game.