The La Liga action returns to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano today, Sunday, January 18, 2026, as Atletico Madrid hosts Deportivo Alaves. Kick-off is scheduled for 15:15 GMT / 16:15 local time.
Diego Simeone’s side enters this fixture looking to solidify their grip on a top-four spot. Currently in 4th place with 38 points, Atletico remains a formidable force at home but sits 11 points adrift of league-leaders Barcelona. For Alaves, currently 17th in the table, the mission is survival as they sit just two points clear of the relegation zone.
Match Information
| Feature | Details |
| Competition | La Liga (Matchday 20) |
| Date | Sunday, January 18, 2026 |
| Kick-off | 15:15 GMT / 10:15 ET |
| Venue | Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Madrid |
| Referee | To be confirmed |
Atletico Madrid: The Metropolitano Fortress
Atletico Madrid has been practically untouchable at home this season, boasting a record of eight wins and one draw from their nine league matches at the Metropolitano. While their title ambitions have cooled, Simeone has maintained a high level of defensive discipline, conceding only seven goals on home turf all season.
Team News and Selection:
Major Absences: Clément Lenglet remains sidelined with a knee injury and isn't expected back until February. Nico González is also a significant doubt due to a thigh problem.
The Griezmann Factor: Antoine Griezmann continues to be the heart of the team, having recently scored the winner in their Copa del Rey victory over Deportivo La Coruña.
Forward Line: Julián Álvarez is expected to lead the attack alongside Alexander Sørloth, despite the Argentine searching for his first league goal since November.
Predicted XI (4-4-2): Oblak; Llorente, Pubill, Hancko, Ruggeri; Giuliano Simeone, Barrios, Koke, Baena; Álvarez, Sørloth.
Alaves: Fighting the Road Blues
Alaves, now under the management of Eduardo Coudet, faces a daunting statistical mountain today. The "Babazorros" have struggled significantly away from home, losing their last six consecutive away league games. However, they can take confidence from their recent 2–0 Copa del Rey win over Rayo Vallecano and the fact they held Atletico to a 1–1 draw earlier this season.
Team News and Selection:
Suspensions: Facundo Garcés is unavailable due to an ongoing disciplinary sanction.
Injury Doubts: Striker Lucas Boyé, Toni Martínez, and Aitor Mañas are all carrying knocks and face late fitness tests.
Key Player: Carlos Vicente is the primary threat for the visitors, having netted four league goals this season and scoring in the previous meeting against Atletico.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Sivera; Jonny, Tenaglia, Pacheco, Parada; Ibáñez, Blanco; Vicente, Guridi, Aleñá; Martínez.
? Head-to-Head (H2H) and Key Stats
Home Dominance: Atletico Madrid has won their last seven home matches against Alaves in all competitions.
Historical Context: Alaves has not won a league game as a guest against Atletico since May 2003.
Goal Trends: Atletico has scored 2 or more goals in ten of their last 11 home games across all competitions.
Clean Sheet Struggle: Alaves has kept only three clean sheets this season, despite captain Antonio Sivera ranking among the league leaders for total saves.
Tactical Analysis and Prediction
Atletico’s tactical setup will likely focus on high-volume wing play and fast breaks, areas where they have historically punished Alaves. With Álex Baena and Marcos Llorente providing width, Alaves will need an inspired performance from their defensive block to stay in the game.
Given Atletico's near-perfect home record and Alaves' dismal form on the road, a home victory is the most probable outcome.
Final Score Prediction: Atletico Madrid 3–0 Alaves
