Rehabilitation after a thrashing? Prediction for Anaitasuna vs Alavés, November 3
On Tuesday, November 3, we can look forward to a colorful Basque derby in the Copa del Rey round of 64, as modest club Anaitasuna from Azkoitia takes on top-flight side Deportivo Alavés. This clash is a genuine celebration for the local amateur team, which has been handed a unique opportunity to test itself against its famous regional neighbors. For the visitors, meanwhile, this cup tie is a mandatory step on the road to the next round.
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Modest Anaitasuna approaches the biggest clash of the autumn with tremendous emotional momentum and sky-high motivation. The hosts traditionally rely on an unbreakable fighting spirit, disciplined defensive organization and the passionate support of the home crowd at Cheroya Stadium. Anaitasuna's coaching staff fully understands the enormous gap in class and physical preparation, but is urging its players to put up the maximum fight, close down the space around their own penalty area and keep the score level for as long as possible.
Deportivo Alavés are going through a difficult spell in the domestic league, so the opening round of the Copa del Rey is viewed by the Basque coaching staff as an ideal opportunity to regain their winning rhythm and give valuable playing time to their nearest reserves. The visitors boast a rich selection of promising youngsters and ambitious players eager to make an impression and earn a place in the first-team squad. Even with inevitable squad rotation and some effort conservation ahead of their La Liga fixtures, the class superiority of the “weed destroyers” appears beyond dispute.
The tactical script of the upcoming encounter will be dictated entirely by Alavés' total dominance. From the opening minutes, the visitors will look to take control of possession, attack across the full width of the pitch and methodically unsettle their opponents' defensive lines with quick combination play. Anaitasuna will respond with a deep, layered defensive block, reliable support in the central areas and a reliance on occasional counterattacks or set pieces. Nevertheless, the visitors' superiority in individual skill, speed of decision-making and physical condition could prove the decisive factor in favor of the favorite.
Prediction
I believe Anaitasuna can produce quality football and show some bite against a La Liga side. My prediction: both teams to score – YES at 2.8
