Some media outlets linked to Atletico Madrid are taking victory for granted ahead of the team's trip to face Alaves this Sunday. This pre-match confidence clashes with the reality of an opponent in strong form, currently sitting sixth in the LaLiga table.
Atletico, second with 16 points, travel to Vitoria on a run of three consecutive league wins, the latest a victory over Real Madrid. Yet, some associated press are already calculating leadership scenarios and distributing points before a ball is kicked at Mendizorroza. "The environment of Atletico de Madrid cries before setting foot in Vitoria that they are daring to consider the match won," a national outlet has said. This approach has been labelled by others as "a letter to the Three Wise Men," highlighting football's unpredictability.
An opponent in fine form
Deportivo Alaves is no ordinary opponent. The Vitoria-based side has four wins and a draw in its last five matches across all competitions, including an emphatic 5-2 win over Osasuna. In that spell they have scored 11 goals and conceded just four. Their home strength is historical, as shown by a 2-0 win over Atletico in April 2024. The most recent meeting, however, was a narrow 1-0 win for Atletico at the Metropolitano last January.
Sunday's clash promises to be a tactical duel where local effort and pride will be key. Alaves has shown this season it does not surrender to anyone, preparing real matches based on grass, not spreadsheets. For Atletico, maintaining focus and respecting the opponent will be essential to hold onto their second place and remain five points behind Barcelona. The squad can check the full schedule on our fixtures page and the updated table on standings. The match takes place on Sunday, October 10th at the Mendizorroza Stadium.
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