Deportivo Alaves vs Barcelona: Shocking Upset or Barca’s Triumph?

The highly anticipated La Liga clash between Deportivo Alaves and FC Barcelona is set to captivate football fans worldwide. With Barcelona striving to maintain their position at the top of the league and Deportivo Alaves seeking a strong performance, this match promises to deliver thrilling football action. Here’s everything you need to know about the fixture, including live streaming details, match previews, and predicted lineups.

When and Where to Watch Deportivo Alaves vs Barcelona?

The Deportivo Alaves vs Barcelona match in the 2024-25 La Liga season will be held at the iconic Mendizorroza Stadium in Spain. The game is scheduled for October 6, 2024, with kickoff at 7:45 PM IST.

For fans wondering how to catch the action, here’s where to watch:

• Streaming Platform: The match will be available for live streaming on the GXR World app and its official website for Indian viewers.
• Broadcast: Unfortunately, no TV channels will be broadcasting the game in India, so streaming remains the go-to option for fans across the subcontinent.

Match Preview: Deportivo Alaves vs Barcelona

Barcelona comes into this match after a spectacular 5-0 win against Swiss side Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League. However, they are also dealing with an injury crisis that has impacted key positions in the squad. This encounter against Deportivo Alaves offers an opportunity for the Catalan giants to recover from their recent La Liga setback against Osasuna, where they suffered their first loss of the season.

Barcelona remains atop the La Liga standings with 21 points from eight matches, while Alaves is positioned 11th with 10 points. With Barcelona’s injury-plagued defense, Alaves might see this as a chance to exploit any vulnerabilities and cause an upset.

Barcelona’s Key Changes

A major storyline ahead of the game is Barcelona’s goalkeeper situation. Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, signed as a free agent, will not be available for this fixture. He is expected to join the squad only after the international break, leaving Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s deputy, Inaki Pena, to start between the sticks. Other key injuries in defense and midfield also mean that young talent will need to step up and fill crucial roles.

Also read: Barcelona vs AC Milan Preseason

Predicted Lineups

Given the current state of both squads, here are the expected lineups for the match:

Deportivo Alaves Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):

• GK: Sivera
• DEF: Tenaglia, Mourino, Abqar, Sedlar, Diarra
• MID: Jordan, Blanco
• FWD: Vicente, Stoichkov, Martin; T. Martinez

FC Barcelona Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):

• GK: Pena
• DEF: Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde
• MID: Casado, Pedro
• FWD: Yamal, Raphinha, Torres
• STR: Lewandowski

Also read: Barcelona vs Real Madrid: Bold Predictions for El Clásico 2024

Tactical Battle: Can Alaves Upset Barcelona?

Alaves will rely on defensive stability and quick counter-attacks to break down Barcelona’s backline. Barcelona’s injury concerns give Alaves an opportunity to press high and exploit any gaps left by the young and less-experienced defenders. The spotlight will also be on Robert Lewandowski, who is expected to lead the attack for Barcelona. The veteran striker has been in excellent form, and his goal-scoring ability could be the decisive factor in the game.

On the other hand, Pedri and Raphinha will play key roles in midfield, controlling possession and ensuring that Barcelona retains its signature style of fluid passing. Their ability to break through Alaves’ defense could determine the outcome of the match.

Key Players to Watch

1. Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona): The Polish striker is always a goal threat, and his leadership up front will be crucial for a Barcelona side that has struggled with injuries.
2. Stoichkov (Alaves): As one of Alaves’ main attacking outlets, Stoichkov’s pace and technical skills will be key in trying to unlock Barcelona’s defense.
3. Pedri (Barcelona): Barcelona’s midfield maestro, who controls the tempo of the game with his vision and passing range.

Recent Form and Statistics

• Barcelona: 7 wins, 1 loss in their last 8 La Liga games.
• Alaves: 3 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw in their last 8 La Liga games.

Barcelona’s dominance in the league and superior squad depth make them favorites, but with their injury woes and Alaves squad, it will be interesting to see how manager Hansi Flick manages his lineup. Despite the setbacks, Barcelona remains a dominant force in the league and will be looking to return to winning ways.

Deportivo Alaves, on the other hand, will look to capitalize on Barcelona’s vulnerabilities and put up a strong fight in front of their home crowd. They have had a mixed start to the season but have the capability to trouble any top team on their day. The Mendizorroza Stadium, known for its passionate fans, will be buzzing as Alaves aim to pull off a stunning upset.

Key Players to Watch

For Barcelona, much of the attacking responsibility will fall on Robert Lewandowski, who has been in excellent form this season. With the likes of Pedri, Raphinha, and rising star Lamine Yamal expected to start, Barca’s attack remains lethal despite their injury concerns.

Deportivo Alaves, meanwhile, will look to Stoichkov and T. Martinez to lead their frontline. Antonio Blanco’s midfield control will be essential in stopping Barcelona’s attacks and setting up scoring opportunities.

Predicted Lineups for Deportivo Alaves vs Barcelona

Deportivo Alaves (4-4-2 Formation):

• GK: Sivera
• DEF: Tenaglia, Mourino, Abqar, Sedlar
• MID: Diarra, Jordan, Blanco, Vicente
• FW: Stoichkov, T. Martinez

Barcelona (4-3-3 Formation):

• GK: Pena
• DEF: Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Balde
• MID: Casado, Pedro
• FW: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Torres
• ST: Lewandowski

Barcelona’s lineup could see more changes as manager Flick manages his squad rotation due to injuries and fatigue.

Livestream and Telecast Info

Fans will not want to miss this high-stakes encounter between Deportivo Alaves and Barcelona. The match will be streamed live on the GXR World app and the GXR website for viewers in India. It’s worth noting that no television broadcast is available for this game in the country.

Make sure to tune in and support your favorite team!

Read more: Barcelona vs Real Madrid: Who is better, FC Barcelona or Real Madrid?

Tactical Analysis

Deportivo Alaves is likely to adopt a compact defensive strategy, focusing on crowding their defensive third and hitting Barcelona on the counterattack. Given Barcelona’s superior possession game, Alaves will aim to frustrate their opponents and capitalize on any mistakes. Stoichkov’s leadership will be crucial to their offensive strategy.

Barcelona, on the other hand, will focus on maintaining possession and controlling the tempo of the game. Flick will instruct his team to press high and recover the ball quickly to prevent Alaves from getting into rhythm. With players like Lewandowski and Yamal in attack, Barcelona’s frontline can turn half-chances into goals.

Prediction

While Deportivo Alaves will put up a resilient fight, Barcelona is expected to win this contest due to their superior squad depth and quality, even with several injuries. The final scoreline could be 2-0 in favor of the Catalan club.

FAQs

1. When is the Deportivo Alaves vs Barcelona La Liga 2024-25 match?

The match will take place on October 6, 2024, with kickoff at 7:45 PM IST.

2. Where is the match being held?

The game will be held at the Mendizorroza Stadium in Spain.

3. Where can I watch the match live?

The match will be available for live streaming on the GXR World app and its website in India.

4. Will Szczesny be playing for Barcelona?

No, Szczesny will not make his debut for Barcelona in this match. He will be available for selection only after the international break.

5. What is the current position of Barcelona in the La Liga standings?

Barcelona is currently sitting at the top of the table with 21 points from eight games.