At the Estadio de Mendizorrotza on 14 December 2025, Alavés host Real Madrid in a La Liga fixture loaded with pressure for the visitors, as reports suggest the outcome could play a decisive role in determining the future of their head coach.
Prediction: Real Madrid to Win
This selection is driven more by urgency and circumstance than by recent form. Despite their problems, Real Madrid arrive knowing that anything less than victory would deepen the crisis, and that necessity could prove decisive against limited opposition.
Real Madrid Playing Under Extreme Pressure
Real Madrid come into this match in worrying shape, having won only two of their last eight games in all competitions. The problems run through every department. Kylian MbappĂ© is a doubt, which would significantly reduce attacking threat, while suspensions to Ălvaro Carreras and Fran GarcĂa add to an already severe defensive injury list. Xabi Alonso is likely to be forced into improvisation at the back, potentially fielding a defensive line with minimal natural defenders. In attack, Endrick is suspended, further narrowing options, while VinĂcius has recently faced criticism from the BernabĂ©u crowd and Rodrygo continues to struggle for output, with just one goal in his last thirty-four appearances. The margin for error is minimal.
Alavés Limited but Dangerous at Home
Alavés approach the match without the same level of pressure, but also without the quality depth of their opponent. At Mendizorrotza they are capable of competing through intensity and organisation, yet their ceiling remains limited, especially against teams forced to dominate the ball. While they can make life uncomfortable, they often lack the cutting edge required to fully exploit vulnerable opponents.
Match Dynamics & Tactical Expectation
The match is likely to be tense rather than fluid, shaped by Real Madridâs need to control the narrative and avoid early setbacks. Expect a cautious but determined approach from the visitors, with emphasis on structure and efficiency rather than flair. AlavĂ©s may look to disrupt rhythm and capitalise on defensive improvisation, but if Real Madrid strike first, the balance should tilt in their favour. In a match defined by pressure rather than confidence, Realâs obligation to respond could be enough to carry them through.
