Espanyol vs. Deportivo Alavés: A Crucial La Liga Encounter

Following a week dominated by European competitions, La Liga EA SPORTS returns with a compelling fixture: RCD Espanyol versus Deportivo Alavés. This Friday night match kicks off matchday 23, promising a thrilling contest with significant implications for both teams.

Espanyol Seeking to Break Winless Streak

Manolo González’s Espanyol side enters the match on a four-game winless run. They’ll be desperate to secure three points and create some breathing room between themselves and the relegation zone, distancing themselves from the likes of Real Betis and Celta Vigo. The pressure is on to perform in front of their home crowd.

Espanyol’s Confirmed Lineup

González has opted for Marko Dmitrovic in goal, backed by a familiar defensive line that has shown promise this season. The lineup features a slight adjustment with Riedel starting at right-back alongside Carlos Romero on the left, with Leandro Cabrera and Fernando Calero forming the central defensive partnership.

Urko González and Edu Expósito will anchor the midfield, providing a platform for the attacking players. The forward line sees Ramón Terrats and Jofre deployed on the wings, supporting the striking duo of Kike García and Roberto Fernández.

Espanyol Starting XI: Dmitrovic, Riedel, Calero, Cabrera, Romero; Urko González, Edu Expósito; Ramón Terrats, Jofre, Kike García, Roberto Fernández.

Alavés Aiming to Climb Away from Danger

For Deportivo Alavés, this match represents a golden opportunity to pull further away from the relegation battle. Under the guidance of Luis Coudet, El Glorioso will be looking to build on recent performances and secure vital points.

Deportivo Alavés’ Confirmed Lineup

Coudet has placed his trust in Sivera between the posts, with Jonny Otto at right-back and Parada on the left. Pacheco and Protesoni will form the central defensive pairing.

A 4-4-2 formation sees Pablo Ibáñez and Antonio Blanco in a double-pivot midfield role, providing defensive solidity and linking play. Calebe and Carles Aleñá will offer width and creativity from the flanks.

With Denis Suárez unavailable, Coudet has opted for a two-pronged attack featuring Lucas Boyé and Toni Martínez, hoping their combined firepower can unlock the Espanyol defense.

Deportivo Alavés Starting XI: Sivera, Jonny, Protesoni, Pacheco, Parada; Pablo Ibáñez, Antonio Blanco, Calebe, Aleñá; Lucas Boyé, Toni Martínez.

Key Battle to Watch

The midfield battle between Espanyol’s Urko González and Edu Expósito and Alavés’ Pablo Ibáñez and Antonio Blanco will be crucial. Controlling possession and dictating the tempo will be key to unlocking the opposing defenses. Furthermore, the duel between the strikers – Kike García and Lucas Boyé – will be one to watch for goal-scoring opportunities.

You can find more information about La Liga on the official La Liga website.