Deportivo Alavés is set to face RCD Espanyol at the Mendizorroza Stadium on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM, in what promises to be a thrilling and significant La Liga showdown. With both teams entrenched near the bottom of the league table, this match holds immense importance as they battle to avoid relegation.
Currently, Alavés occupies the second-to-last position, sitting with 22 points from their previous outings. Their latest match against Leganés ended with a thrilling 3-3 draw, adding to their growing tally of points but still reflecting their struggles this season. Meanwhile, Espanyol arrives at this match with 24 points, having drawn their last fixture 1-1 against Athletic Bilbao. For both teams, taking all three points is not just desired; it’s necessary for their survival and aspiration to rise up the league.
The Alavés coach, pressured by the relegation battle, has been vocal about the need for improvement. The team must focus on tightening their defense and capitalizing on scoring opportunities, something they’ve struggled with throughout the season. With 35 goals conceded and only 25 scored, their goal differential sits at -10, underscoring the urgency for tactical adjustments and more decisive play.
On the other side, Manolo González, the coach of Espanyol, has expressed the significance of mentality and confidence over mere tactical formations. “What we lack is mentality and confidence, more than a formation. We have to have the same mentality at home away from home. Tomorrow is the day to make a statement,” González stated before the match. His call for his players to carry their strong home form to away games reflects the challenges Espanyol has faced when playing on the road, traditionally where they’ve struggled more than at home.
Statistics also play heavily on the minds of both coaching staffs. Alavés has been among the top teams for fouls committed this season, and paired with Espanyol's habit of picking up cards, this match could become fiercely contested. Referee Juan Luis Pulido Santana, known for averaging over 5.7 yellow cards per game this season, may well influence the discipline shown on the pitch. Backers of the Bet Builder markets might find value here, particularly focusing on each team receiving more than 1.5 cards during the fixture. Alavés has met this standard 15 times out of their last 17 league games, mirroring the form of Espanyol.
Historically, the duo has often met with tightly contested matches. Their last encounter ended with Espanyol edging out Alavés 3-2, hinting at how close these encounters can be. With both sides fielding squads capable of tactical shifts, the match could oscillate dramatically depending on who asserts their style first.
Alavés counts on Kike García and Toni Martínez to generate attacks, hoping for more than just occasional sparks; they will aim to score consistently. García, for example, has considerable experience and could be the difference-maker on the pitch. Espanyol, on the other hand, will lean on players like Javi Puado, who brings goal-scoring ability and experience, and hopes to weave artistry with tenacity.
While both coaches have their game plans laid out, the real test may come down to which team can maintain composure under pressure and execute their strategy effectively. The mental aspect of the game will undoubtedly play a pivotal role, as emphasized by González: “A draw is never enough for us... We have to take the step forward to get the three points.” The meaning behind this match stretches beyond earning points; it defines their season and aims to either lift them out of the relegation zone or plunge them closer to it.
Fans carrying the hopes of their clubs will fill the stands, each moment filled with tension and anticipation. Will Alavés leverage their home advantage, or can Espanyol earn the watershed victory they so desperately need as they fight to stave off relegation? All will be revealed on the pitch this Saturday.