Alavés and Oviedo desperate for New Year lift-off in relegation six-pointer
Both struggling sides meet at Mendizorroza with hopes of kickstarting their 2026, as Alavés aim to bounce back while goal-shy Oviedo haven't won since September.
Both sides looking to shake off their 2025 hangovers and finally get their seasons moving in the right direction. The hosts sit precariously above the drop zone while Oviedo are desperate to end a winless run stretching back to September.
Alavés seeking solid foundations
Coudet’s men are desperate to turn the page after ending 2025 with a painful defeat to Osasuna. While they’re not currently in the relegation spots, a defeat here could leave them right on the edge of the abyss – not what the doctor ordered.
The gaffer has some selection headaches to sort:
- Parada remains unavailable through injury
- Both Diarrá and Mariano continue to serve their disciplinary suspensions
- Lucas Boyé is a doubt up front, potentially opening the door for Toni Martínez to lead the line
The hosts have been relatively solid at the back but finding the onion bag at the other end has been their Achilles heel. They’ll be hoping Mendizorroza can provide the spark they need to get 2026 off to a flyer.
Oviedo’s goal drought reaching critical levels
Things are looking proper grim for the visitors, who haven’t tasted victory since their win at Valencia’s Mestalla back on September 30th. Even more concerning is their goal drought – they haven’t found the net since October 25th, going seven matches without troubling the scorers.
New boss Guillermo Almada faces his first away test after debuting against Celta, and will likely welcome back David Carmo to the heart of defence following his African Cup of Nations duties.
Of their January reinforcements:
- Midfielder Nico Fonseca is available after training with Club León
- Thiago Borbas needs more time to reach match fitness after an extended break
Several players in the matchday squad could be on their way out this transfer window, with Álex Forés the prime example. Despite having a move to Leganés all but sealed, the striker might feature due to Oviedo’s limited attacking options following Salomón Rondón’s departure.
Key battle: Toni Martínez vs Fede Viñas
Both sides will be looking to their main men up top to provide the cutting edge in what promises to be a tense affair. Martínez is likely to get the nod for the hosts if Boyé misses out, while Viñas has cemented his place as Oviedo’s attacking focal point.
With both teams desperate for points, don’t be surprised if this one’s tighter than a duck’s you-know-what. First goal could be absolutely crucial in this relegation six-pointer.