Alaves vs Valencia
La Liga
Saturday
2nd September 2023
Mendizorroza
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 4 of the La Liga fixture between Alaves and Valencia.
Alaves vs Valencia: Preview
Alaves form analysis
Deportivo Alaves have made an encouraging start on their return to La Liga, producing 1 win and 2 narrow defeats from their opening 3 games.
They began with a tight 0-1 loss away at fellow promoted side Cadiz in their season opener. But Alaves then produced an excellent performance to beat Sevilla 4-3 in a thriller at home. They led three times before securing the win.
Most recently, Alaves were edged out 0-1 away at Getafe after conceding late to a penalty. It was another competitive display against established opposition.
Overall, early signs have been promising for Alaves as they seek to avoid another immediate relegation. Their best performances have shown they carry a threat in attack while also being resilient.
The main focus will be improving their results against direct rivals in tight contests. But the 4-3 win over Sevilla highlighted Alaves have enough about them to survive if they can replicate that form consistently.
Valencia form analysis
Valencia have made an inconsistent start under new manager Gennaro Gattuso, recording 2 wins and a defeat in their opening 3 league games.
They began positively by claiming an impressive 1-2 victory away at Sevilla, scoring late through Diakhaby and Guerra to seal the comeback win after equalizing.
Valencia continued their winning ways by edging Las Palmas 1-0 courtesy of Pepelu’s penalty. It was an unconvincing display though against limited opposition.
Most recently, Valencia were comfortably beaten 1-2 at home by Osasuna in a disappointing performance. They struggled to create chances and conceded from two set pieces.
Overall, early signs have been mixed for Valencia as Rubén Baraja implements his ideas. At their best, they have shown grit to grind out results on the road. But replicating it consistently at home is the next step.
Maintaining intensity and tightening up defensively will be crucial. But the platform is there for Valencia to progress if they can build momentum after an up and down start under Baraja.
