Real Madrid vs Deportivo Alaves Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Tuesday, April 21st
Real Madrid vs Deportivo Alaves Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Tuesday, April 21st. As we look forward to this LaLiga clash, Real Madrid will host Deportivo Alaves at the iconic Estadio Bernabeu. This match is set to kick off on Tuesday, April 21st, and promises to be an intriguing encounter as both teams vie for crucial points in the league standings.
Real Madrid, known for their formidable home record, will aim to capitalise on their advantage at Estadio Bernabeu. Meanwhile, Deportivo Alaves will be eager to upset the odds and secure a vital result away from home. With both teams having different aspirations in LaLiga, this matchup holds significant importance in the context of their respective campaigns.
Real Madrid vs Deportivo Alaves Prediction & Betting tip
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| Both teams to score in the first half: yes | 5.1 |
Looking at the match dynamics, Real Madrid’s strong attacking prowess and tendency to score first make them the clear favourites. Deportivo Alaves, while resilient, usually adopt a defensive stance and could struggle to keep up with Madrid’s early pressure. Given these factors, our recommended betting tip is to bet on ‘Real Madrid to score first’.
- Real Madrid have scored first in 100% of their last 7 matches against Deportivo Alaves over the past 5 seasons.
- Deportivo Alaves concede an average of 1.5 goals per game this season, indicating a vulnerability at the back.
- Real Madrid’s dominant possession and early pressure typically result in them breaking the deadlock.
Betting Odds
Real Madrid are the clear favourites in this LaLiga clash against Deportivo Alaves, with bookmakers offering odds of 1.31 for a home win. Alaves, on the other hand, are seen as long shots with odds of 9, while a draw stands at 5.57, reflecting the challenge they face at the Bernabeu.
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| Real Madrid to win | 1.31 |
| Draw | 5.57 |
| Deportivo Alaves to win | 9 |
For those looking to place a bet, the match odds suggest potential value in backing Real Madrid to win comfortably. However, considering Alaves’ knack for surprising results, a punt on a draw could offer a handsome return.
Real Madrid Analysis & Past Performance
Real Madrid’s recent form has been somewhat inconsistent, with the team securing just one victory in their last five outings across all competitions. Their most recent match saw them narrowly defeated 4-3 by Bayern Munich in a thrilling Champions League encounter.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bayern Munich | Real Madrid | 4 – 3 (Loss) | Champions League Knockout Stages | 15 Apr 2026 |
| Real Madrid | Girona | 1 – 1 (Draw) | LaLiga | 10 Apr 2026 |
| Real Madrid | Bayern Munich | 1 – 2 (Loss) | Champions League Knockout Stages | 7 Apr 2026 |
| Mallorca | Real Madrid | 2 – 1 (Loss) | LaLiga | 4 Apr 2026 |
| Real Madrid | Atletico Madrid | 3 – 2 (Win) | LaLiga | 22 Mar 2026 |
Recent Form:
In their last five games, Real Madrid have managed to score in every match, averaging 1.80 goals per game, but have conceded an average of 2.20 goals, indicating defensive vulnerabilities. Their attacking prowess remains evident with Kylian Mbappé leading the charge, contributing 23 goals this season.
Real Madrid’s home form, however, paints a more positive picture with a win ratio of 60% over their last five home fixtures. Despite this, they have not kept a clean sheet in these matches, which highlights a need for defensive improvements. Currently positioned 2nd in LaLiga with 70 points, Real Madrid’s offensive capabilities are clear, but defensive solidity will be crucial as they aim to maintain their league standing.
- LDLLW
Real Madrid Suspensions & Injuries
Real Madrid face a few key absences due to injuries as they prepare to host Deportivo Alaves. The absence of first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, out with a thigh injury until late April, means that Andriy Lunin will continue to deputise between the sticks. While Lunin has shown promise, Courtois’ commanding presence and shot-stopping ability will be missed, potentially affecting Real Madrid’s defensive solidity.
Rodrygo’s long-term cruciate ligament injury further depletes the attacking options, with his expected return not until early December. This places an additional burden on Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior to deliver up front. Fortunately, both are available and in the starting lineup, ensuring that Madrid still boast a formidable attack.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Joan Martínez | hamstring injury | Late April 2026 |
| Víctor Valdepeñas | thigh injury | Doubtful |
| Rodrygo | cruciate ligament injury | Early December 2026 |
| Thibaut Courtois | thigh injury | Late April 2026 |
| Raúl Asencio | stomach issue | Doubtful |
Víctor Valdepeñas and Raúl Asencio are both doubtful with injuries, which could limit Real Madrid’s depth in midfield and attack. The tactical impact of these absences might lead manager Álvaro Arbeloa to rely more heavily on the likes of Brahim Díaz and Jude Bellingham to maintain creativity and control in the midfield. The potential lack of depth could influence match outcomes, offering a slight edge to Alaves, especially if they can exploit these vulnerabilities.
Real Madrid Key Players
Real Madrid will heavily rely on their top scorer, Kylian Mbappé, who has netted an impressive 23 goals this season. Mbappé’s explosive pace and clinical finishing make him a constant threat to any defence, and his ability to create space and opportunities for teammates like Vinícius Júnior adds a dynamic edge to Real Madrid’s attacking prowess. In midfield, Jude Bellingham stands out with his box-to-box capabilities, offering both defensive solidity and creative spark. His partnership with Federico Valverde, known for his tireless work rate and tactical intelligence, will be crucial in controlling the game’s tempo.
Defensively, Éder Militão and David Alaba form a solid partnership at the heart of the defence, combining Militão’s physicality and aerial prowess with Alaba’s experience and composure. Their ability to neutralise opposition attacks while initiating play from the back will be vital. As Real Madrid take on Deportivo Alaves, these key players are expected to shape the tactical approach, emphasising swift counter-attacks and tight defensive organisation.
Expected lineup for Real Madrid:
- Goalkeeper: Andriy Lunin
- Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, David Alaba, Fran García
- Midfielders: Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Brahim Díaz
- Forwards: Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior
Real Madrid Tactics and Formation
Real Madrid Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-4-2
- Key Forwards: Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior
- Midfield Engine: Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde
- Defensive Setup: Integration of Fran García
- Notable Strategy: High pressing and utilising wide areas effectively.
Real Madrid’s 4-4-2 formation under Álvaro Arbeloa is designed to maximise the attacking prowess of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior. With Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde in midfield, the team maintains a balance between defensive solidity and forward thrust. The absence of Rodrygo requires Brahim Díaz to step up and provide creativity from the wings.
Defensively, the introduction of Fran García alongside stalwarts like Dani Carvajal and David Alaba offers a mix of youth and experience. The formation allows Real Madrid to maintain a compact shape, although recent games have seen them concede frequently, with no clean sheets in the last five matches.
Offensively, Real Madrid focus on high pressing and exploiting the wide areas. The pace of Mbappé and Vinícius is crucial in breaking defensive lines, especially during quick transitions. Despite recent losses, their ability to score consistently remains a threat to any opposition.
Deportivo Alaves Analysis & Past Performance
Deportivo Alaves have had a challenging recent spell, with a mixed bag of results highlighting their inconsistency. Over the last five matches, they have managed only a single victory, coupled with three draws and one loss, demonstrating a struggle to convert games into wins.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real Sociedad | Deportivo Alaves | 3 – 3 (Draw) | LaLiga | 11 Apr 2026 |
| Deportivo Alaves | Osasuna | 2 – 2 (Draw) | LaLiga | 5 Apr 2026 |
| Celta Vigo | Deportivo Alaves | 3 – 4 (Win) | LaLiga | 22 Mar 2026 |
| Deportivo Alaves | Villarreal | 1 – 1 (Draw) | LaLiga | 13 Mar 2026 |
| Valencia | Deportivo Alaves | 3 – 2 (Loss) | LaLiga | 8 Mar 2026 |
Recent Form:
In these encounters, Deportivo Alaves have scored an average of 2.40 goals per game, while conceding the same number, underlining their vulnerability at the back. Despite scoring in all five matches, they have failed to secure a clean sheet, which points to defensive frailties that opponents can exploit. Their current away form shows just one win in five outings, with two losses and two draws, reflecting their struggles on the road.
Their position near the bottom of the LaLiga table, standing at 17th with 33 points, indicates the uphill task they face to avoid relegation. Lucas Boyé, the team’s top scorer with 11 goals, remains a key figure in their attacking setup. However, their overall win ratio of 20% in recent games underscores the need for significant improvements, particularly in tightening their defence and maintaining focus throughout the match.
- DDWDL
Deportivo Alaves Suspensions & Injuries
Deportivo Alaves face a couple of challenges ahead of their clash with Real Madrid due to player unavailability. Abde Rebbach is suspended for this match after accumulating yellow cards, which is a blow to their defensive options. His absence means a reshuffle in the backline is essential, possibly pushing Carles Aleñá into a more defensive role, or requiring an alternative from the bench to step in.
| Player | Suspension | Matches Left | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abde Rebbach | yellow cards | 1 | Unknown |
Carlos Benavídez is sidelined with a leg injury and is not expected to return until late April 2026. Although not a regular starter, his absence does limit the depth in midfield, potentially affecting late-game tactical flexibility for coach Quique Sánchez Flores.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Carlos Benavídez | leg injury | Late April 2026 |
These absences might force Deportivo Alaves to adopt a more conservative approach, especially against a formidable opponent like Real Madrid. The lack of depth could impact their ability to maintain intensity throughout the match, which might be a consideration for those placing bets on the encounter.
Deportivo Alaves Key Players
Deportivo Alaves will heavily rely on their top scorer, Lucas Boyé, who has netted 11 goals this season. Boyé’s clinical finishing and ability to exploit spaces in the opposition’s defence make him a formidable threat. His performance will be pivotal in breaking down Real Madrid’s defensive lines, especially when paired with the creativity and support from the midfield.
In the midfield, Antonio Blanco and Jon Guridi are expected to play vital roles. Blanco’s vision and passing accuracy are crucial for dictating the tempo of the game, while Guridi’s industrious nature provides the necessary balance between defence and attack. Defensively, the presence of Nahuel Tenaglia and Jonny Otto will be key. Their defensive solidity and ability to thwart Real Madrid’s attacking threats will be essential in maintaining a compact defensive structure.
Expected lineup for Deportivo Alaves:
- Goalkeeper: Antonio Sivera
- Defenders: Ángel Pérez, Jonny Otto, Nahuel Tenaglia, Víctor Parada, Carles Aleñá
- Midfielders: Pablo Ibáñez, Antonio Blanco, Jon Guridi
- Forwards: Antonio Martínez, Ibrahim Diabaté
Deportivo Alaves Tactics and Formation
Deportivo Alaves Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 5-3-2
- Key Forward: Antonio Martínez
- Midfield Engine: Antonio Blanco
- Defensive Concerns: No clean sheets in the last five games
- Notable Strategy: Emphasis on defensive solidity and counter-attacking play.
Deportivo Alaves adopt a 5-3-2 formation, aiming to enhance defensive resilience while exploiting counter-attacks. The back five, including Jonny Otto and Nahuel Tenaglia, provides a solid defensive base, although recent performances indicate vulnerabilities, evidenced by conceding 12 goals in the last five matches.
In midfield, Antonio Blanco plays a pivotal role in linking defence and attack, supported by Pablo Ibáñez and Jon Guridi. Their ability to maintain possession and dictate the pace is crucial, especially against Real Madrid’s high-pressing style.
Offensively, the duo of Antonio Martínez and Ibrahim Diabaté remains key to breaking down opposition defences, relying on quick transitions from defence to attack. Despite their struggles to keep clean sheets, their counter-attacking approach can be effective, particularly against teams committing numbers forward.
Real Madrid vs Deportivo Alaves H2H Record
Real Madrid have dominated the head-to-head record against Deportivo Alaves, winning 22 of their 26 encounters, while Alaves have managed just 3 wins and there’s been 1 draw. The last meeting saw Madrid clinch a 2-1 victory at Alaves’ ground in December 2025, continuing their strong form in LaLiga.
When these teams last met at the Bernabeu in September 2024, Madrid secured a thrilling 3-2 win. Historically, Real Madrid have been formidable at home against Alaves, often scoring freely as seen in their 5-0 rout in May 2024.
| Home Team | Away Team | Score | League | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deportivo Alaves | Real Madrid | 1 – 2 | LaLiga | 2025-12-14 |
| Deportivo Alaves | Real Madrid | 0 – 1 | LaLiga | 2025-04-13 |
| Real Madrid | Deportivo Alaves | 3 – 2 | LaLiga | 2024-09-24 |
| Real Madrid | Deportivo Alaves | 5 – 0 | LaLiga | 2024-05-14 |
| Deportivo Alaves | Real Madrid | 0 – 1 | LaLiga | 2023-12-21 |
