Overview
Alaves sit impressively 2nd in the standings with 10 points from 4 games, boasting a strong home record and a solid defense conceding just 0.75 goals per game this season. Valencia, in stark contrast, are bottom with just 1 point and a leaky defense allowing 2.25 goals per game. Last season’s baseline shows Alaves scoring 1.2 and conceding 1.5 per game, while Valencia’s full last season data is unavailable, but early signs suggest defensive struggles persist.
Form & xG
Alaves' recent form (WWDW) and underlying xG of 1.58 for vs 0.69 against confirm their attacking edge and defensive solidity, despite only 44.8% possession. Valencia’s form (LLLD) and xG of 1.03 for vs 0.93 against reflect their struggles upfront and defensive frailty. Alaves’ 13.5 shots per game with 5 on target contrast with Valencia’s 9.8 shots only 2.8 OT, showing Alaves’ superior chance creation.
Team news & key players
Alaves rely on defenders like N. Tenaglia (7.41 rating, 1G, 1.67 tackles/90) and Pablo Ibáñez (6.87 rating, 1G), while Antonio Blanco contributes 2.01 shots/90 and 0.67 key passes/90. Valencia’s key players include Javier Guerra (6.67 rating, 1.13 shots/90, 1.13 key passes/90) and Pepelu (6.97 rating). However, Valencia’s defense shows discipline issues with Mouctar Diakhaby already on 2 yellows in 225 minutes.
Stats & betting angles
Alaves average 5.3 corners per game, nearly double Valencia’s 3.8, indicating attacking pressure. Fouls and cards favor Alaves (14.5 fouls, 2.5 yellows per game) compared to Valencia’s 9.8 fouls and 1.5 yellows. BTTS stands at 50% for Alaves but only 25% for Valencia this season, suggesting Alaves’ defense is more reliable. Both teams have 50% games over 2.5 goals, but Valencia’s low scoring rate hints at a lower-scoring affair.
Verdict
Given Alaves’ superior form, xG, shots, and defensive record, they are strong favorites. Valencia’s struggles in attack and defense make them vulnerable, especially away. Expect a competitive match with Alaves scoring multiple goals, but Valencia might find the net once. The small sample size this season advises cautious optimism, but last season’s baseline and current stats strongly support an Alaves win with BTTS and over 2.5 goals.




































































































