Sevilla welcome Deportivo Alavés to the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium on Friday night in the opening fixture of LaLiga Matchday 12, with the hosts looking to return to winning ways after a disappointing run of results.
Luis García Plaza’s side sit sixth with 17 points from 11 matches, five points ahead of Alavés, who sit 11th with 12 points. Although Sevilla have struggled for consistency recently, their home advantage could prove decisive against visitors enduring a difficult spell.
Sevilla have recorded just one victory in their last five league matches, suffering three defeats and drawing once. Their latest setback was a 3-1 loss against Getafe, while their previous home league fixture produced a convincing 2-0 victory over Osasuna. Defensive problems remain a concern, having conceded 13 goals across their last five league outings.
Alavés, meanwhile, arrive in poor form, having gone seven LaLiga matches without a victory. Their latest disappointment was a heavy 6-1 defeat against Barcelona, following a 1-1 draw with Málaga and a 2-1 loss to Celta Vigo. Their away performances have also been underwhelming, with no victories in five league trips this season.
Despite Sevilla’s superior league position, Alavés have historically been a difficult opponent at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán. The visitors have avoided defeat in their last four league visits to the stadium, while their most recent meeting in February ended in a 1-1 draw. Nevertheless, their current defensive struggles could make another positive result difficult to achieve.
Team availability could also influence the encounter. Sevilla will be without suspended midfielder Manu Bueno and injured winger Peque Fernández, while Marcão and Miguel Sierra are also unavailable. Isaac Romero has returned to the matchday squad after his recent injury concern. Alavés are without long-term absentees Facundo Garcés and Mikel Rodríguez, but otherwise have their squad available.
Sevilla’s attacking quality, combined with Alavés’ disappointing away record, gives the hosts a reasonable advantage. However, the visitors’ previous success at this ground suggests Sevilla should not expect an easy evening. Both sides have shown defensive weaknesses, making goals at either end a possibility.
Prediction: Sevilla to win
Alternative selection: Both Teams to Score – Yes
Score prediction: Sevilla 2-1 Alavés
