Atletico Madrid vs Deportivo Alavés Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, 18 January

Atletico Madrid will face Deportivo Alavés in a LaLiga clash at the Cívitas Metropolitano on Sunday, 18 January. This match promises to be an intriguing encounter as Atletico Madrid, known for their strong defensive setup, take on Deportivo Alavés, who are looking to climb up the league table. The Cívitas Metropolitano will host this exciting fixture, providing a formidable home advantage for Atletico.

Both teams will be eager to secure valuable points in this LaLiga matchup. Atletico Madrid, with their sights set on a top-four finish, will aim to capitalise on their home advantage. Meanwhile, Deportivo Alavés will be striving to upset the odds and gain crucial points away from home. This match is set to offer plenty of tactical battles and could be pivotal in shaping the league standings as the season progresses.

Atletico Madrid vs Deportivo Alavés Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Atletico Madrid (-1) in 1st Half (European Handicap)	4.55

Given Atletico Madrid’s strong home form and Alavés’ defensive vulnerabilities, our recommended betting tip is backing Atletico Madrid to win by 2 or more goals. This takes into account Atletico’s impressive goal-scoring record and Alavés’ tendency to concede late goals, particularly in the final 15 minutes of matches.

• Atletico Madrid have scored 34 goals this season while conceding only 17, demonstrating solid attacking and defensive capabilities.
• Deportivo Alavés have conceded most goals in the 76-90 minute interval, indicating a struggle to maintain focus towards the end of matches.
• Atletico Madrid’s strong home performance and Alavés’ position near the relegation zone make a convincing case for a comfortable Atletico victory.

Betting Odds

Atletico Madrid are strong favourites in this LaLiga clash against Deportivo Alavés, with the home side’s odds reflecting their superior form and quality. Alavés, on the other hand, are seen as long shots, but such odds might tempt those looking for a high-risk, high-reward punt.

Betting Tip	Odds
Atletico Madrid to win	1.34
Draw	4.93
Deportivo Alavés to win	9.37

The draw is also an intriguing option, given its decent return. For those eyeing goal markets, Atletico’s attacking prowess suggests that betting on over 2.5 goals could be worthwhile, especially considering their home advantage at the Cívitas Metropolitano.

Atletico Madrid Analysis & Past Performance

Atletico Madrid’s recent form has been solid, with their last five matches resulting in three wins, one draw, and one loss. Notably, their recent victory against Deportivo La Coruña in the Copa del Rey highlights their capability to perform under pressure. They have managed to score in all five matches, averaging 1.80 goals per game, which indicates a consistent offensive threat spearheaded by Julián Álvarez, who has netted seven goals this season.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Deportivo La Coruña	Atletico Madrid	0 – 1 (Win)	Copa del Rey	13 Jan 2026
Atletico Madrid	Real Madrid	1 – 2 (Loss)	Super Cup	8 Jan 2026
Real Sociedad	Atletico Madrid	1 – 1 (Draw)	LaLiga	4 Jan 2026
Girona	Atletico Madrid	0 – 3 (Win)	LaLiga	21 Dec 2025
Atletico Baleares	Atletico Madrid	2 – 3 (Win)	Copa del Rey	17 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
Atletico Madrid’s defence has shown resilience, achieving two clean sheets in their last five outings and conceding an average of just 1.00 goal per game. At home, Atletico have been particularly formidable, with a win ratio of 0.80 from their last five home games, despite a recent defeat to Real Madrid in the Super Cup. Their home form has been pivotal, contributing significantly to their current standing of 4th in LaLiga with 38 points.

Atletico’s tactical discipline is evident in their ability to maintain possession and create opportunities, as seen in their recent matches where they have consistently outperformed opponents in shots and corners. However, their occasional lapses in defensive concentration, allowing goals in three of their last five games, could be a concern against high-calibre teams. Nonetheless, their balanced approach and home advantage make them a challenging opponent for any visiting team.

• WLDWW

Atletico Madrid Suspensions & Injuries

Atletico Madrid face a few notable absences due to injuries. Ilias Kostis will miss the remainder of the season with a cruciate ligament injury, which limits the defensive options for Diego Simeone. More pressing are the injuries to Clément Lenglet and Nico González, both expected to return in late January 2026. Lenglet’s absence could impact the defensive solidity, although Marc Pubill and Dávid Hancko are available to fill in the gaps.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Ilias Kostis	Cruciate ligament injury	Out for season
Clément Lenglet	Knee injury	Late January 2026
Nico González	Thigh injury	Late January 2026
Koke	Muscle injury	Late January 2026

In midfield, Koke is listed as having a muscle injury but is still named in the starting lineup, suggesting he may be fit enough to play through any lingering issues. His experience and leadership are vital for Atletico Madrid, particularly in orchestrating play and maintaining possession against Deportivo Alavés.

The tactical impact of these injuries is somewhat mitigated by the depth Atletico Madrid possess, with players like Marcos Llorente capable of adapting to various roles as needed. This flexibility could prove crucial in maintaining their usual 4-4-2 formation without significant disruption, ensuring they remain competitive despite the unavailable players.

While the injuries to Lenglet and González may slightly affect Atletico Madrid’s defensive and midfield depth, the team’s ability to adapt tactically should minimise any adverse effects. As a result, the betting markets might still favour Atletico Madrid, given their strong core lineup and home advantage.

Atletico Madrid Key Players

Atletico Madrid will heavily rely on their top scorer, Julián Álvarez, who has impressively netted 7 goals this season. Álvarez’s dynamic playing style and ability to exploit defensive gaps make him a constant threat in the attacking third. His partnership with Alexander Sørloth in the forward line offers a blend of agility and physical prowess, potentially overwhelming Deportivo Alavés’ defence.

In the midfield, Pablo Barrios stands out as a key player. His vision and passing accuracy are pivotal in orchestrating play and linking defence with attack. Barrios, alongside Giuliano Simeone, will be instrumental in dictating the game’s tempo and providing the necessary support to the forwards. Defensively, Marcos Llorente’s versatility allows him to transition between roles seamlessly, contributing both offensively and defensively.

Expected lineup for Atletico Madrid

• Goalkeeper: Jan Oblak
• Defenders: Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill, Dávid Hancko, Matteo Ruggeri
• Midfielders: Giuliano Simeone, Pablo Barrios, Koke, Alejandro Baena
• Forwards: Alexander Sørloth, Julián Álvarez

Atletico Madrid Tactics and Formation

Atletico Madrid Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-4-2
• Key Forward: Julián Álvarez
• Midfield Pivot: Koke and Pablo Barrios
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Strong defensive structure with quick counter-attacks.

Atletico Madrid’s 4-4-2 formation under Diego Simeone is characterised by its robust defensive organisation and efficient counter-attacking play. With Koke and Pablo Barrios anchoring the midfield, the team maintains a balance between defensive resilience and forward thrust. The inclusion of Giuliano Simeone and Alejandro Baena on the wings provides width and pace, crucial for rapid transitions.

Defensively, the backline featuring Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill, Dávid Hancko, and Matteo Ruggeri has been instrumental in Atletico’s recent form, contributing to two clean sheets in their last five matches. Jan Oblak’s presence in goal further solidifies their defensive setup, known for its discipline and tenacity.

Offensively, Julián Álvarez, alongside Alexander Sørloth, leads the attack. Álvarez, currently Atletico’s top scorer, is pivotal in their counter-attacking strategy, utilising his speed and finishing ability to exploit opposition defences. The absence of Antoine Griezmann necessitates tactical adjustments, but the team’s depth ensures sustained offensive threat.

Deportivo Alavés Analysis & Past Performance

Deportivo Alavés have been struggling to find consistency this season, sitting 16th in LaLiga with a total of 19 points. In their last five matches, they have managed two victories, one draw, and suffered two defeats, showcasing a mixed bag of results. Their recent 2-0 victory against Rayo Vallecano in the Copa del Rey provides a glimmer of hope for their fans.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Deportivo Alavés	Rayo Vallecano	2 – 0 (Win)	Copa del Rey	14 Jan 2026
Villarreal	Deportivo Alavés	3 – 1 (Loss)	LaLiga	10 Jan 2026
Deportivo Alavés	Real Oviedo	1 – 1 (Draw)	LaLiga	4 Jan 2026
Osasuna	Deportivo Alavés	3 – 0 (Loss)	LaLiga	20 Dec 2025
Deportivo Alavés	Sevilla	1 – 0 (Win)	Copa del Rey	17 Dec 2025

Recent Form: Alavés’ attack has been relatively subdued, averaging 1.00 goal per game over their last five fixtures, while their defensive vulnerabilities are evident with an average of 1.40 goals conceded per match. Despite creating opportunities, their conversion rate has not been impressive, with key player Lucas Boyé contributing four goals this season.

Away Performance: The away form has been particularly concerning for Deportivo Alavés. They have not secured a win in their last five away matches, losing four and drawing one. This poor away form is reflected in their average of 0.80 goals scored per away game, while conceding an average of 1.80 goals, highlighting defensive fragility on the road.

• WLDLW

Deportivo Alavés Suspensions & Injuries

Deportivo Alavés face a challenging situation with several players listed as doubtful due to injuries. Lucas Boyé and Toni Martínez are both struggling with muscle injuries, while Aitor Mañas and Youssef Enríquez face physical discomfort. These absences could disrupt their tactical fluidity, especially in the attacking department where Boyé and Martínez are typically influential figures.

The absence of Toni Martínez from the lineup will be a significant blow, given his usual role in spearheading the attack. The onus will likely fall on Antonio Martínez, who is fit and available, to step up and deliver in his stead. In midfield, Pablo Ibáñez and Antonio Blanco are expected to maintain stability, providing the necessary support to the forward line.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Lucas Boyé	Muscle injury	Doubtful
Aitor Mañas	Physical discomfort	Doubtful
Youssef Enríquez	Physical discomfort	Doubtful
Toni Martínez	Muscle injury	Doubtful

With a number of key players dealing with injuries, Alavés may have to adapt their formation or rely on their bench strength, potentially affecting their overall performance against Atletico Madrid. These injuries could influence betting odds, as the team’s attacking options appear limited, which might impact their goal-scoring capabilities.

Deportivo Alavés Key Players

Deportivo Alavés will rely heavily on the creative prowess of Carles Aleñá in midfield. Known for his vision and technical skills, Aleñá acts as the team’s primary playmaker, often dictating the tempo and providing crucial passes that unlock defences. His partnership with Antonio Blanco in the midfield will be pivotal, as Blanco’s defensive acumen allows Aleñá the freedom to advance and support the attack.

Antonio Martínez, leading the line, will be tasked with converting opportunities into goals. While Lucas Boyé, the team’s top scorer, is sidelined, Martínez’s role becomes even more crucial as he aims to step up and fill the void in attack. His ability to hold up play and bring others into the game will be essential against Atletico Madrid’s formidable defence.

Expected lineup for Deportivo Alavés

• Goalkeeper: Antonio Sivera
• Defenders: Jonny Otto, Nahuel Tenaglia, Jon Pacheco, Víctor Parada
• Midfielders: Pablo Ibáñez, Antonio Blanco, Carlos Vicente, Jon Guridi, Carles Aleñá
• Striker: Antonio Martínez

Deportivo Alavés Tactics and Formation

Deportivo Alavés Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Antonio Martínez
• Midfield Pivot: Pablo Ibáñez and Antonio Blanco
• Defensive Stability: One clean sheet in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Compact defence with quick counterattacks.

Deportivo Alavés’ 4-2-3-1 formation is designed to provide defensive strength while allowing for swift transitions into attack. Pablo Ibáñez and Antonio Blanco form the midfield pivot, tasked with disrupting opposition plays and initiating counterattacks. The midfield trio of Carlos Vicente, Jon Guridi, and Carles Aleñá supports this setup, offering creativity and width.

Defensively, Alavés rely on the sturdy backline featuring Jonny Otto and Nahuel Tenaglia as full-backs, with Jon Pacheco and Víctor Parada in central roles. This setup has delivered a clean sheet in their recent Copa del Rey triumph over Rayo Vallecano, showcasing their ability to maintain defensive discipline.

Offensively, the team focus on exploiting spaces through quick counterattacks, particularly leveraging the pace and positioning of Antonio Martínez. Despite their recent struggles away from home, this tactical approach has seen them secure crucial victories in key matches.

Atletico Madrid vs Deportivo Alavés H2H Record

Atletico Madrid and Deportivo Alavés have faced off 22 times, with Atletico winning 11 of those encounters, while Alavés have managed 5 victories, and 6 matches ended in a draw. The last meeting in August 2025 saw a 1-1 draw at Alavés’ home ground in LaLiga. Atletico’s last home game against Alavés in November 2024 ended in a 2-1 victory, showcasing their strong form at the Cívitas Metropolitano.

In LaLiga, Atletico have generally had the upper hand, especially at home, where they’ve consistently edged out Alavés. The last time Atletico hosted Alavés, they secured a narrow win, which could be a good omen for the home side this time around.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	League	Date
Deportivo Alavés	Atletico Madrid	1 – 1	LaLiga	2025-08-30
Deportivo Alavés	Atletico Madrid	0 – 0	LaLiga	2025-05-03
Atletico Madrid	Deportivo Alavés	2 – 1	LaLiga	2024-11-23
Deportivo Alavés	Atletico Madrid	2 – 0	LaLiga	2024-04-21
Atletico Madrid	Deportivo Alavés	2 – 1	LaLiga	2023-10-29