Second-placed Atlético Madrid are building momentum in the La Liga 2026/27 title race. Their latest test is against Alavés at Mendizorrotza on Saturday.

Competition in attack for Alavés with Boyé leading the way

Alavés are missing three injured players. Facundo Garcés and Mikel Rodríguez are both a long way off returning from serious knee issues, while Ville Koski is sidelined until November.

Striker Toni Martínez is now fully fit, which leaves Quique Sánchez Flores with three strong options up front. With four goals in six appearances this term, Lucas Boyé looks sure to start, while Martínez and Mariano Díaz are competing for one place alongside him.

The Babazorros picked up a point in a goalless draw away to Basque rivals Athletic Club last time out. Koski’s injury will force a slight defensive reshuffle, with Ángel Pérez likely to come into the side.

Alavés predicted lineup vs Atlético Madrid (3-5-2): Sivera; Tenaglia, Valentini, Jonny; Á. Pérez, Blanco, Ibáñez, D. Suárez, Rebbach; T. Martínez, Boyé.

Atlético Madrid looking to build on derby win

After an unconvincing start to the campaign, Atlético Madrid hit form in the final week before the international break. Strikes from Alejandro Grimaldo and Jonathan David sealed a 2-1 derby win over Real Madrid last time out.

With many of his players taking part in internationals in different parts of the world, the Atleti boss may leave some of his stars on the bench. That could include Lee Kang-in and Julián Álvarez.

Grimaldo looks to have shaken off a knock that forced him to pull out of the Spanish squad. The 31-year-old has already made three goal contributions in six appearances in La Liga. He should team up with Álex Baena on the left side of the pitch.

Atlético Madrid predicted lineup vs Alavés (3-4-2-1): Oblak; Pubill, Le Normand, Hancko; Simeone, Llorente, Hjulmand, Grimaldo; Lookman, Baena; David.

Alavés vs Atlético Madrid Prediction

  • Safe Tip: Over 2 goals
  • Odds: 1.39 (22Bet)
  • Correct score prediction: Alavés 1-2 Atlético Madrid
  • 22Bet Booking Code: BHTAC

Key stats:

  • All of the previous seven Atlético Madrid matches have ended with three or more goals.
  • League fixtures involving Atleti are averaging 3.29 goals per 90 minutes this term.
  • Alavés have scored 2.25 goals per game at home this season.

Backing over 2 goals is a safe pick. Atlético Madrid's reshaped backline has been vulnerable this term, and they have conceded six times across their opening four competitive away fixtures. At the other end, they are looking more threatening now, with summer signing David netting in each of his past three club appearances.

Since the appointment of Sánchez Flores in March, Alavés have taken more risks and been a more entertaining team to watch. 58% of their league games under the guidance of the 61-year-old have ended with three or more goals.

Alavés vs Atlético Madrid Prediction, Value Tip

  • Value Tip: Second half - Atlético Madrid to win
  • Odds: 2.18 (22Bet)
  • 22Bet Booking Code: AE7AC

Atlético Madrid have gone four matches without defeat against this opposition, and their quality is expected to eventually show. They have excelled after the interval in recent weeks, with eight of their past nine goals coming in the second half.

Backing the visitors to win the second half offers value at 2.18. That bet has landed in each of the previous three Atleti fixtures.

Verdict: Over 2 goals (1.39) — Alavés 1-2 Atlético Madrid