Alavés are in a desperate fight to avoid relegation as they welcome champions Barcelona to Mendizorroza. With the title mathematically secured by the Catalans, the home side must take advantage of any potential complacency, but they cannot assume their rivals will ease off. Here are our key predictions for the match.
**Match Context**
Alavés sit in the relegation zone and urgently need points. Barcelona, already crowned La Liga champions, may rotate or lack intensity, but their attacking quality remains formidable. The hosts will need to turn their stadium into a fortress to have any chance.
**Prediction 1: Total Goals and Barcelona Scoring Range**
Given Alavés’ pressing need for points, both ends should see activity. In three of their last four matches, total goals fell between one and four. This has also occurred in 11 of Alavés’ last 12 home games, in Barcelona’s last 10 away official matches, and in the last four visits to Mendizorroza. Barcelona have scored in every league fixture this season. A combined bet: **Total goals between 1 and 4, with Barcelona scoring between 1 and 3**. Odds: 1.57 at Bet365.
**Prediction 2: Sivera Over 2.5 Saves**
Despite Barcelona having little left to play for, they boast one of the best attacks in the world, even without Lamine Yamal. They lead the league in total shots and shots on target. Alavés goalkeeper Sivera has made at least three saves in 15 of his last 19 matches facing enough shots-on-target. Expect him to be busy: **Sivera to make over 2.5 saves**. Odds: 1.50 at Bet365.
**Prediction 3: Barcelona to Have More Total Shots**
Surprisingly, the odds for Barcelona to have more total shots than Alavés are attractive. Barcelona have outshot their opponents in all but four league matches, while Alavés rank low in shot volume. With the home side likely to take more risks, the difference could be even greater: **Barcelona to have more total shots than Alavés**. Odds: 1.44 at Bet365.
**Match Odds**
– Alavés win: 3.10 (Bet365)
– Draw: 3.75 (Bet365)
– Barcelona win: 2.15 (Bet365)
These odds are accurate at the time of writing and may change. Play responsibly.