Villarreal vs Alavés prediction, H2H and probable lineups — January 10, 2026
As part of the 19th round of the Spanish La Liga, Villarreal will face Alavés. The match is set for Saturday, January 10, with kickoff scheduled for 16:15 Central European Time. I’m offering a prediction on the winner of this clash.
Match preview
Villarreal’s season has been marked by ups and downs, but the team remains a solid contender in the top half of the table. They consistently pick up points, especially against less formidable opponents, and are well positioned to fight for another Champions League qualification.
However, the “Yellow Submarine” still lacks consistency over the long haul. Their disappointing Champions League run and a shocking exit from the Copa del Rey are clear evidence of that.
In recent rounds, Villarreal have played attacking football, scoring in most matches but also allowing opponents plenty of chances. In La Liga, though, the team has looked superb and confidently holds on to a top-3 spot.
Home advantage remains a key factor. At La Cerámica, Villarreal play more aggressively, dominate possession, and utilize the flanks with greater intensity. This season, most of their home games have seen the hosts score two or more goals.
Alavés are once again focused on the relegation battle, even though they spent much of the first half of the season closer to mid-table. Their results have been inconsistent, and they often struggle against teams that dictate the game.
Recent performances have highlighted Alavés’ instability. The team concedes regularly—especially away from home—but they are capable of scoring through quick counterattacks and set pieces.
Since early November, a slump has set in, with only one La Liga victory during that period. Their current 13th place is misleading: they’re just three points clear of the drop zone.
Chacho Coudet’s side doesn’t score much, but it would be unfair to call Alavés completely passive in attack. They look to exploit the pace of their wide players and the physical presence of their strikers, which allows them to create chances even against stronger opposition.
Match facts
- Villarreal have lost their last two home matches.
- Alavés have won only one La Liga match in the last two months.
- The Basques haven’t won an away league match since mid-September.
- Villarreal average 2.2 goals per game at home, while Alavés average just 0.4 goals per game away.
Probable lineups
- Villarreal: Jorgensen, Pedraza, Veiga, Foyth, Mourinho, Comesaña, Parejo, Moleiro, Pepe, Perez, Mikautadze.
- Alavés: Sivera, Otto, Tenaglia, Pacheco, Parada, Blanco, Vicente, Rebbach, Suárez, Ibáñez, Boyé.
H2H
- Both teams have scored in six of their last seven encounters at La Cerámica.
- Alavés haven’t beaten Villarreal away since 2019.
Prediction
Villarreal are expected to dictate play, while Alavés will look to strike on the counter. Given the hosts’ attacking approach, the visitors’ defensive issues, and the head-to-head stats, this match promises to be open and entertaining. I don’t expect Villarreal to face major problems—they should capitalize on their chances and secure all three points.
