Double trouble up top solves Coudet's Alavés headache
Alavés ended their relegation form with a memorable win against Real Betis, as Coudet's return to a two-striker system paid dividends at Mendizorroza.
Deportivo Alavés delivered when it mattered most, lifting themselves out of the relegation zone with a proper Bobby Dazzler of a performance against Real Betis.
Pressure relieved at Mendizorroza
After a dismal run of form that saw them collect just 4 points from 27 available, the alarm bells were ringing in Vitoria. Dropping into the relegation places for the first time this season after their defeat to Atlético Madrid had put manager Eduardo Coudet’s position under serious scrutiny.
But blimey, did his players respond! In what was arguably their most complete performance of the season, Alavés dominated proceedings with fluid attacking play that Betis simply couldn’t handle. Carlos Vicente opened the scoring before Toni Martínez doubled their advantage after the break, with Abde’s late consolation for Betis doing little to threaten the deserved three points.
Back to basics with two up top
The tactical masterstroke from Coudet came in his decision to revert to a 4-4-2 formation, pairing Toni Martínez and Lucas Boyé together for the first time in over two months. The last time this partnership started was in a defeat against Celta Vigo, after which Coudet had favoured a system with two attacking midfielders - Denis Suárez and Pablo Ibáñez.
The change paid immediate dividends:
- The team looked far more vertical in their attacking approach
- Wide spaces opened up naturally with two focal points centrally
- Alavés won significantly more individual duels when playing direct
- Both strikers were directly involved in the goals, with Boyé assisting Vicente’s opener
Martínez’s goal early in the second half was his third in four matches, suggesting the striker is hitting form at precisely the right time for the Basque outfit.
What this means for Alavés
This victory breathes new life into Alavés’ survival campaign. The performance wasn’t just about the three points - it was the manner of victory that will give supporters hope. The attacking fluidity displayed throughout most of the match showed what this team is capable of when the tactical approach clicks.
Coudet has found a potential solution to his team’s recent struggles, and the question now becomes whether he sticks with this winning formula for the crucial fixtures ahead.