Defensive Foundations and Key Players
Deportivo Alavés has made a concerted effort to establish a strong defensive foundation this season, with their primary objective being permanence in the league. A significant factor in this defensive solidity has been the consistent performance of Ville Koski. Koski has started in every league match this season, and his presence has directly correlated with an improved defensive record for the team. According to [1], Alavés has managed to keep a clean sheet in 50% of the matches where Koski has been in the starting lineup. This highlights his crucial role in the team’s backline. Alongside Koski, Nahuel Tenaglia and Abde Rebbach have also been ever-present figures in the starting XI for all league matches, further contributing to the team’s stability. In terms of personnel, Carlos Protesoni is reportedly being considered for a central defender position, which could offer additional depth and options for the coaching staff. However, the team will continue to be without Facundo Garcés, who remains injured despite being close to a return, as reported by [2].
Recent Form and League Ambitions
Alavés has navigated an atypical break and is now preparing for the restart of the league campaign, with a clear focus on maintaining their positive momentum. Their overarching goal for the season is to ensure permanence in the top flight, a target that seems achievable given their current standing. The team’s recent form in La Liga shows a mixed bag of results. In their last five league outings, Alavés has secured two wins, one draw, and two losses. They began this sequence with a 1-0 home victory against Villarreal CF, followed by a dominant 5-2 win at home against CA Osasuna. However, they then experienced back-to-back away losses, falling 2-1 to Real Racing Club de Santander and 1-0 at home to Valencia CF. Most recently, they secured a valuable point with a 0-0 draw away against Athletic Club. This run of results underscores the competitive nature of the league and the challenges Alavés faces in consistently securing points, even with their improved defensive displays.
What it means
Deportivo Alavés currently occupies a respectable 6th position in La Liga, having accumulated 11 points from 7 matches. Their record of 3 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses, with 11 goals scored and 6 conceded, indicates a strong start to the season, particularly in their defensive efforts. The team’s form over the last five matches, with two wins, one draw, and two losses, suggests a period of fluctuating results but also resilience, as evidenced by their recent away draw. The objective of permanence in the league, as stated by the club, appears to be well within reach if they can maintain their current trajectory. The next fixture will be crucial in solidifying their position and continuing their push towards their seasonal goal, building on the defensive foundations that have been laid. The blend of strong home performances and the ability to secure points away from home will be key to their continued success.
