Alavés and Betis Face Off in a Crucial LaLiga Match

Tonight, Alavés will host Betis at Mendizorroza at 21:00 (local time) in a match marked by contrasting objectives. The home team, struggling in the relegation zone, needs to establish a stronghold at home to escape their current predicament. In contrast, Betis, having lost only one away match in LaLiga this season, aims to secure more points in their pursuit of European qualification. This match also features a reunion between Pellegrini and Coudet, who previously worked together at River Plate during the 2002-03 season, with Pellegrini as coach and Coudet as a player.

The Argentine coach finds himself under pressure, as another defeat could jeopardize his position following a disappointing record of just four points from the last 27 available. Alavés’ last league victory dates back to December 6 against Real Sociedad; since then, they have found solace only in the Cup. Improving their finishing is crucial, with Lucas Boyé returning to the starting lineup alongside Carlos Vicente, despite speculation regarding interest from clubs like Birmingham and Ajax.

Betis arrives in Vitoria amid a troubling wave of injuries, with Bellerín, Ruibal, Junior, Amrabat, Isco, Lo Celso, Riquelme, and Cucho all sidelined due to various physical issues. Meanwhile, Antony and Ricardo, who have been included in the squad, are uncertain about their availability due to minor injuries. The objective for the visitors is to secure three points away from home and climb to fifth place in the league, as they hope for gradual recoveries of their key players.

The matchup between Carlos Vicente and Antony will be crucial, as both players are vital to their teams’ success. These two quick wingers possess exceptional dribbling skills and the ability to create scoring opportunities. Vicente has netted four goals this season, while Antony has scored five, contributing four assists as well. Their performances could be decisive in steering their respective teams towards victory.