Alaves – Espanyol

Alavés head into the clash at the Mendizorrotza with a solid 10 points from five games, perched in third place after three wins, a draw and a single defeat, and boasting a comfortable 11‑5 goal difference. Their visitors, Espanyol, sit eighth on 7 points, having collected two victories, one draw and two losses while scoring eight and conceding five. The Catalans will need to improve on their defensive record if they hope to overturn Alavés’ superior tally and climb back into the European spots. Historically, the two sides have exchanged blows in a tightly contested rivalry, making this encounter a pivotal test for both clubs as the season progresses.