There was absolutely no sign of a Champions League hangover from Real Madrid as they swept Granada aside 4-0 on Saturday to make it 22 competitive games unbeaten (W16, D6). Having been confirmed as La Liga champions at the end of matchday 34, Carlo Ancelotti’s side will now get to lift the trophy in front of their fans after this game, guaranteeing a party atmosphere at the Bernabéu.
Before that, Real Madrid will focus on the target of going unbeaten across an entire home league campaign (W15, D2 so far) – something they last achieved in the 2019/20 campaign. With the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund to come next month as well, there will be no let up from a Los Blancos side who haven’t lost a La Liga game here since April 2023 (W19, D3).
After drawing 2-2 with Girona, Alavés could still achieve a top-half La Liga finish for the first time since 2016/17, which was coincidentally the last time they were new to the division following promotion. Luis García’s side are on a four-match unbeaten run (W3, D1) and taking four points during that run from sides in the top four (W1, D1) should have them in good spirits as they visit Madrid.
Somewhat dampening those spirits is the fact Alaves haven’t travelled well this term, and although beating Valencia 1-0 snapped a run of three straight league road defeats, that was just their third such victory of the campaign (D5, L9). While they might take inspiration from winning this H2H 2-1 in 2020 during COVID times, it should be noted that their previous win here with fans present was back in May 2000.
Players to watch: Arda Güler’s strike against Granada was his second in his last three Real Madrid appearances and all three of his goals this season came in wins ‘to nil’. Jon Guridi has netted three times across Alavés’ last three games, two of which came after the 50th minute.
Hot streak: Real Madrid have won their last five La Liga home games played on a Tuesday by at least a two-goal margin.
