Deportivo Alavés - Atlético de Madrid: battle for points and the top of the table at Mendizorrotza Stadium
Deportivo Alavés and Atlético de Madrid will meet on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 16:15 local time in the eighth round of Spain's LaLiga. The match will take place at Mendizorrotza Stadium in Vitoria-Gasteiz, where the home side will attempt to stop the team currently sitting second in the league standings and return to winning ways after three consecutive rounds without a victory.
The match comes after the international break, and both teams have reasons for optimism. Atlético de Madrid, managed by Diego Simeone, collected 16 points from their first seven matches and arrive on the back of three consecutive league victories, including a win against Real Madrid. Deportivo Alavés, coached by Quique Sánchez Flores, occupy sixth place with 11 points. The home side have started the season considerably better than they performed during much of the previous campaign, but they now need to rediscover their winning rhythm.
Mendizorrotza has a capacity of 19,840 spectators, and the visit of one of Spain's leading clubs represents an important event in the city's football calendar. Tickets for this match are currently on sale, making it advisable to arrange seats in the stands and travel to Vitoria-Gasteiz in good time.
LaLiga standings and the importance of the match for both teams
Atlético de Madrid enter the eighth round as the second-placed team in LaLiga. Simeone's players have recorded five wins, one draw and one defeat in seven matches, scoring 16 goals and conceding seven. This record has allowed them to remain near the very top of the league, and the away match against Deportivo Alavés offers an opportunity to maintain pressure on their rivals.
Particularly encouraging is the fact that Atlético managed to put together three victories after a heavy defeat against Athletic Club. During those matches, they scored nine goals and conceded only one. The team have demonstrated that they can win in different ways: through controlling possession, launching quick attacks and exploiting spaces left by their opponents.
After seven rounds, Deportivo Alavés have three wins, two draws and two defeats, with 11 goals scored and six conceded. Sixth place provides a good starting point for the remainder of the season, but the gaps between teams in the upper part of the standings remain small. A victory over Atlético would give the home side a significant boost in points and confirm that their successful start was no coincidence.
The home team also have an interesting record at Mendizorrotza. In their first four league matches in front of their supporters, they defeated Getafe CF, Villarreal CF and CA Osasuna, while losing to Valencia CF. They scored nine goals in those four encounters. Such attacking efficiency in front of their home crowd is one reason why Atlético cannot expect an easy away fixture.
Deportivo Alavés: an excellent start and the search for a return to winning ways
Quique Sánchez Flores's team opened the league campaign with a 3:0 victory against Getafe CF. A 1:1 away draw against Rayo Vallecano was followed by a 1:0 home win over Villarreal CF and then an emphatic 5:2 victory against CA Osasuna. This run demonstrated that Deportivo Alavés can create chances even against strong opponents.
The next two rounds brought defeats, 2:1 away against Racing de Santander and 0:1 against Valencia CF. In their latest appearance, on September 19, Deportivo Alavés played out a 0:0 away draw against Athletic Club. Their defence therefore kept another clean sheet, but the attack failed to score for a second consecutive match.
For the home side, it is important to regain the efficiency they displayed against Osasuna. Lucas Boyé is one of their main attacking assets with four league goals, while Mariano has three goals and three assists. Their contributions will be particularly important against opponents who seek to close the space between their defensive and midfield lines.
Goalkeeper Antonio Sivera plays an important role in the home side's defence, while Nahuel Tenaglia, Nicolás Valentini and Jonny Otto provide options for building a solid back line. Antonio Blanco is important for maintaining balance in midfield, while Pablo Ibáñez and Carles Aleñá can help move the ball forward towards the attackers.
Atlético de Madrid: three consecutive victories and an increasingly dangerous attack
Atlético opened their league campaign with a 2:0 victory against Málaga CF, followed by a 2:2 draw with Villarreal CF and a 3:1 win over Sevilla FC. A 3:0 away defeat against Athletic Club exposed certain weaknesses, but the team's response was highly convincing.
Atlético won 3:0 away against Real Sociedad, then comfortably defeated CA Osasuna 4:0 at their own stadium before overcoming Real Madrid 2:1 in the city derby. That latest victory represents an important psychological boost ahead of their trip to Vitoria-Gasteiz.
Álex Baena leads the club's league scoring chart with four goals. Jonathan David has scored three, while Alejandro Grimaldo, Kang-In Lee and Giuliano Simeone have each scored twice. This distribution of goals demonstrates that Atlético do not depend on a single striker.
Other important players for Simeone's team include Jan Oblak in goal, Koke as the playmaker and Dávid Hancko in defence. Hancko has also distinguished himself in building attacks, while Marcos Llorente provides energy, mobility and the ability to transition quickly from defence to attack.
After their visit to Vitoria-Gasteiz, Atlético also face a European encounter against Manchester United on October 13. Because of the demanding schedule, Simeone must carefully manage the workload of players returning from international duty. His wide selection of players allows him to make changes during matches without significantly departing from the team's basic style of play.
The tactical battle between Quique Sánchez Flores and Diego Simeone
One of the most interesting aspects of the match will be how Quique Sánchez Flores attempts to restrict Atlético. Predicted Deportivo Alavés line-ups generally feature a 5-3-2 formation, with three central defenders and two wide players who drop into the defensive line when the team is out of possession.
This formation can help the home side close down central areas, but it requires disciplined movement. If the wide players drop too deep, Atlético can take control of midfield and force the hosts into long clearances towards their forwards. However, if they move forward at the right moments, Deportivo Alavés can create situations in which Boyé and his teammates have more space.
Atlético are generally associated with a 4-4-2 formation in match previews, but Simeone's teams frequently adjust their pressing intensity and player positioning during matches. The movement of Álex Baena between the lines, Giuliano Simeone's forward runs and the possibility of Kang-In Lee or Ademola Lookman joining attacks from advanced positions will be important.
Statistics from the opening seven rounds reveal differences in how the teams build their attacks. Atlético have completed 3,940 passes, while Deportivo Alavés have recorded 2,261. The visitors have attempted 84 shots, compared with 71 by the home side. This indicates Atlético's greater involvement in possession-based attacking play, although it does not necessarily mean that the visitors will have an easy path to goal.
In his October 8 pre-match comments, Sánchez Flores expressed his desire for his team to make the encounter uncomfortable for their opponents, with plenty of energy from the very beginning. He particularly highlighted Simeone's ability to change pressing strategies during matches and the quality of players available from the bench.
For spectators, the opening twenty minutes will therefore be particularly interesting to watch. If Deportivo Alavés manage to impose a physical style and win second balls, the match could develop at a considerably different pace from the one Atlético would prefer. An early goal for the visitors would create more space for their quick attackers, while a prolonged period of level scoring could increase the pressure on the favourites.
Injuries, absences and possible changes to the line-ups
Deportivo Alavés have several problems in defence. Facundo Garcés and Mikel Rodríguez have suffered serious cruciate ligament injuries and are not expected to feature against Atlético. These are long-term absences that limit rotation options in the defensive line.
Ville Koski is also doubtful after suffering a thigh muscle injury while on international duty with Finland. Some squad assessments list him among the unavailable players, and the final decision regarding his participation will depend on medical evaluation.
The situation at Atlético is less clear. Some previews mention physical problems affecting Kang-In Lee, while other reports do not list any confirmed absences among the visiting players. For this reason, predicted starting line-ups should be treated as projections rather than confirmed selections.
An additional circumstance for the home side concerns their coach's health. Quique Sánchez Flores underwent knee surgery in early October, but the club confirmed that he is recovering and continuing to perform his duties. The coach himself has discussed preparations for the match against Atlético, so his medical procedure is not considered a reason for changing the coaching staff.
Starting line-ups will become known shortly before kick-off. Particular attention should be paid to the organisation of the home defence, Koski's possible availability and Simeone's choice of attackers following the international break.
Head-to-head meetings: Atlético have the better overall record, but Mendizorrotza is not an easy place to visit
The history of meetings between the teams shows an advantage for Atlético de Madrid. According to BDFutbol records, Atlético have achieved 21 victories in 39 recorded encounters, Deportivo Alavés have won 11, and seven matches have ended in draws.
However, recent encounters demonstrate that the Madrid club do not always win comfortably. Only two goals were scored across the two most recent meetings, and Deportivo Alavés have found ways to neutralise Atlético's attack in recent years.
The last five league meetings between the teams:
- 18.01.2026. - Atlético de Madrid 1:0 Deportivo Alavés
- 30.08.2025. - Deportivo Alavés 1:1 Atlético de Madrid
- 03.05.2025. - Deportivo Alavés 0:0 Atlético de Madrid
- 23.11.2024. - Atlético de Madrid 2:1 Deportivo Alavés
- 21.04.2024. - Deportivo Alavés 2:0 Atlético de Madrid
An especially interesting statistic is that Atlético have failed to win on their last three league visits to Deportivo Alavés. In addition to two draws, they suffered a 2:0 defeat in April 2024.
This sequence gives home supporters reason for optimism, although current form and squad depth favour the visitors. Matches at Mendizorrotza often require patience, and the opening goals could significantly change the tactical approaches of both teams.
Mendizorrotza: a stadium that has accompanied Deportivo Alavés for more than a century
Mendizorrotza is located at Paseo de Cervantes, s/n, 01007 Vitoria-Gasteiz. The stadium opened in 1924 and is one of Spain's recognisable football venues. It has a capacity of 19,840 spectators, and the pitch measures 105 x 68 metres.
Unlike large multi-purpose arenas, Mendizorrotza is a football stadium with stands positioned close to the pitch. This arrangement allows spectators to follow the action at close range, particularly duels along the touchlines and situations inside the penalty areas.
During 2025, the club recorded a total of 341,114 spectators at its home matches, averaging 17,056 per game. The stadium was completely sold out four times during that year. These figures confirm that the home crowd regularly fills a large proportion of the available seats.
Deportivo Alavés supporters are known for the club's blue-and-white colours, while the nickname "El Glorioso" is frequently used as a symbol of their connection to the team. The meeting with second-placed Atlético could further increase fan interest, particularly because of the importance of the points for the home club.
It is worth securing tickets in advance, especially when planning a trip or attending with several people. When selecting seats, it is useful to check the section, corresponding entrance and stadium access rules beforehand.
Getting to the stadium, public transport and parking
Vitoria-Gasteiz is located in the Basque Country in northern Spain. Mendizorrotza lies southwest of the central urban area and can be reached by public transport, taxi or on foot from the wider city centre.
For visitors arriving by car, the traffic regulation changes announced on October 8, 2026, are particularly important. The city authorities have adjusted the Mendizorrotza car park closure arrangements according to the expected number of spectators.
Under the new rules, the entire car park at Amadeo García de Salazar Square will be closed for matches expected to attract more than 5,000 visitors. For events with expected attendance below that number, the section of the car park closest to Paseo de Cervantes will be closed.
Parking restrictions in the affected area begin four hours before the match and remain in place until approximately one hour after the final whistle, or until the relevant authorities permit traffic to resume safely. For matches with higher expected attendance, additional traffic restrictions are introduced gradually, starting two hours before kick-off.
The most important practical information for visitors:
- Stadium address: Mendizorrotza, Paseo de Cervantes, s/n, 01007 Vitoria-Gasteiz.
- Public transport: the BEI bus system, routes A and B, connects the Mendizorrotza area with other parts of the city, including the Salbatierrabide and Unibertsitatea stops.
- Parking: the city authorities recommend the Mendizabala car park as an alternative to the closed parking areas near the stadium.
- Traffic restrictions: for matches expected to attract more than 5,000 visitors, restrictions begin two hours before the match and are expanded further 45 minutes before kick-off.
- Stadium entrances: the exact opening time of the gates for this match has not been confirmed in the available information, so visitors should check the organiser's announcements before arriving.
The BEI bus system is particularly useful for visitors who do not want to search for parking near the stadium. According to the published public transport timetable, buses on this route normally operate at intervals of approximately 15 minutes on Saturdays, although changes are possible due to traffic restrictions.
Visitors using taxis should also take restrictions on access to certain streets into account. Salbatierrabide remains an important area for city buses and taxis, but vehicle movements may be adjusted during periods of increased traffic control.
For matches attracting larger crowds, traffic restrictions affect Paseo de Cervantes and sections of Rosalía de Castro, Salbatierrabide, Concha Espina and Areitio streets. Arriving immediately before kick-off is therefore not recommended.
Vitoria-Gasteiz: what to visit before the football match
For supporters travelling from other cities, Vitoria-Gasteiz offers an opportunity to combine the football match with an exploration of Basque architecture, gastronomy and history. The city is known for its preserved medieval centre, which is called "Almendra Medieval" because of its distinctive street layout.
One of the city's most recognisable landmarks is Catedral de Santa María. Situated on elevated ground in the historic centre, the cathedral represents an important part of the city's cultural heritage. Nearby are old streets, palaces and city squares that form a pleasant sightseeing route.
Plaza de la Virgen Blanca is one of the city's main meeting places. Restaurants and cafés surround the square, while the neighbouring streets offer opportunities to discover local cuisine and traditional Basque pintxos.
Visitors who enjoy walking can explore Parque de la Florida and Paseo de la Senda, green spaces for which Vitoria-Gasteiz is also known. Such a walk can be a practical part of the day's programme before heading towards Mendizorrotza.
Those wishing to explore the city before the match should allow enough time to reach the stadium, pass security checks and find their designated section. It is particularly important not to underestimate traffic restrictions in the immediate vicinity of Mendizorrotza.
The atmosphere in the stands and what spectators can expect
Home supporters have reasons to believe that Deportivo Alavés can put up strong resistance. Three victories in their first four home league matches show that the team can make effective use of the familiar surroundings at Mendizorrotza.
On the other hand, Atlético arrive as one of the strongest teams in the league. Players such as Álex Baena, Jan Oblak, Koke and Giuliano Simeone attract attention, and the visit of such a high-quality team further increases interest in the match.
Strong support for the home side can be expected in the stands, particularly if Deportivo Alavés manage to keep the score level and force the visitors into prolonged periods of defensive work. Every successful challenge, dangerous counterattack or set piece near the penalty area could provoke a powerful reaction from spectators.
For supporters who want to experience the entire football day, arriving sufficiently early is important. The period before kick-off provides an opportunity to become familiar with the stadium layout, find seats and watch the teams warm up.
What will decide the match at Mendizorrotza?
Deportivo Alavés will need effective defensive organisation and good finishing from their limited opportunities. Lucas Boyé and Mariano could be decisive in the final stages of attacks, while the midfield will need to find a way to withstand Atlético's pressure without completely surrendering possession.
For Atlético, the main priority will be to control the tempo and prevent the home side from turning the match into a succession of physical duels and set pieces. Simeone has several attacking options, and situations in which Baena finds space between the lines or Giuliano Simeone attacks the flank of the opposing defence could be especially dangerous.
Substitutions will also be particularly important. Atlético have players on the bench capable of changing the rhythm of the match, while Deportivo Alavés will need to manage their available defensive options carefully because of injuries.
Tickets for Deportivo Alavés - Atlético de Madrid offer an opportunity to watch an important encounter between the sixth-placed and second-placed teams in the league. For spectators planning to attend at Mendizorrotza, the most important steps are to select seats in advance, check the entrance arrangements and organise transport while taking the announced parking and traffic restrictions into account.
Sources:
- LaLiga - schedule for the eighth round of the 2026/2027 season, match date and time, standings, points, goals and player statistics.
https://www.laliga.com/es-MX/partido/temporada-2026-2027-laliga-ea-sports-deportivo-alaves-atletico-de-madrid-8
- LaLiga - Deportivo Alavés results from the first seven league rounds.
https://www.laliga.com/clubes/d-alaves/resultados
- LaLiga - Atlético de Madrid results, including victories against Real Sociedad, CA Osasuna and Real Madrid.
https://www.laliga.com/clubes/atletico-de-madrid/resultados
- Deportivo Alavés - information about Mendizorrotza Stadium, its capacity, address, pitch dimensions and opening year.
https://deportivoalaves.com/es/club/instalaciones
- Deportivo Alavés - report on stadium attendance during 2025 and the number of sold-out matches.
https://deportivoalaves.com/noticias/mendizorrotza-supera-los-340-000-espectadores-en-2025-y-se-consolida-como-uno-de-los-estadios-con-mayor-ocupacion-de-laliga
- BDFutbol - historical results and head-to-head record between Deportivo Alavés and Atlético de Madrid.
https://www.bdfutbol.com/es/p/vs.php?e1=7&e2=3
- FotMob - predicted formations, possible line-ups, injuries and comparison of the teams' current form.
https://www.fotmob.com/es/matches/deportivo-alaves-vs-atletico-madrid/38dxso
- Europa Press, October 8, 2026 - Quique Sánchez Flores's pre-match comments, his tactical expectations and information about his recovery.
https://www.europapress.es/deportes/futbol-00162/noticia-quique-sanchez-flores-me-niego-jugadores-pasen-temporada-pasada-20261008182909.html
- Ayuntamiento de Vitoria-Gasteiz, October 8, 2026 - new rules for closing the Mendizorrotza car park, traffic restrictions and recommendations for visitors.
https://blogs.vitoria-gasteiz.org/medios/2026/10/08/el-aparcamiento-de-mendizorrotza-permanecera-parcialmente-abierto-en-los-partidos-con-una-afluencia-prevista-inferior-a-5-000-personas/
- Ayuntamiento de Vitoria-Gasteiz / TUVISA - timetable and stops of the BEI city bus system.
https://www.vitoria-gasteiz.org/wb021/was/contenidoAction.do?idioma=en&uid=55e17aaa_1249efd7e0c__7fdb
- Turismo Euskadi - attractions of Vitoria-Gasteiz, the medieval centre, Catedral de Santa María and city walking routes.
https://turismo.euskadi.eus/es/circuitos/diez-razones-para-volver-vitoria-gasteiz/webtur00-content/es/