Injury-Hit Real Madrid Face Alavés: Can Leaders Hold Strong as Underdogs Eye Upset?
In a crucial La Liga 2025/2026 Matchday 16 clash, an injury-plagued Real Madrid will travel to Mendizorroza Stadium to face Alavés. Despite sitting atop the league, Real Madrid has shown inconsistent recent form, while hosts Alavés are eager to leverage home advantage and Real Madrid's injury crisis to secure vital points in their relegation battle.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
This La Liga encounter, set for December 14, 2025, at Mendizorroza Stadium in Vitoria-Gasteiz, holds significant stakes for both sides. Real Madrid currently leads the league table with 36 points, aiming to solidify their title aspirations. However, they have experienced an inconsistent run lately, facing pressure across multiple competitions. Conversely, hosts Alavés find themselves battling relegation, sitting 18th in the standings and desperate for home points to improve their position and potentially spring a surprise this season.
Recent Form
According to pre-match reports, Real Madrid's recent form has been concerning, with only one win in their last five La Liga games. A home defeat to Manchester City in the Champions League this week has further intensified the pressure on the squad. In contrast, Alavés, despite their overall league position, recently broke a three-match losing streak with a victory over Real Sociedad and have suffered only one loss in their last five home fixtures, demonstrating resilience on their turf.
Key Players & Injury News
Real Madrid is grappling with a significant injury crisis, with several key players sidelined. Notables include David Alaba (muscular injury), Daniel Carvajal (knee injury), Éder Militão (hamstring injury), and Eduardo Camavinga (ankle injury). However, there's a boost for Los Blancos as Kylian Mbappé, Antonio Rüdiger, and Dean Huijsen are reportedly returning to the squad, providing much-needed attacking prowess and defensive solidity. Alavés, while facing their own challenges with unstated player absences and injuries, remain highly motivated to perform in front of their home crowd. Key players for Alavés include attacking threats Carlos Vicente and Lucas Boyé, alongside influential midfielders Antonio Blanco and Ander Guevara.