Who will kick off the new La Liga season with a win? Prediction for the Alaves vs Getafe match
On Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 19:30 Central European Time, the opening whistle will sound at Mendizorrotza Stadium in Vitoria-Gasteiz for the first matchday of the 2026/27 Spanish La Liga season: Deportivo Alaves hosts Getafe.
Clashes between these two sides are always renowned for their gritty battles, a flurry of minor fouls, and a distinct lack of goals.
The Alaves vs Getafe rivalry is one of the most low-scoring and draw-prone in Spain. Head-to-head meetings regularly end 0-0, 1-1, or with the narrowest of wins: 1-0 or 2-0.
Alaves
The Basques embark on a new La Liga campaign under Quique Sanchez Flores, aiming to secure a solid mid-table spot. Over the summer, Alaves methodically reinforced both their defense and midfield. At their home ground, Mendizorrotza, the Basque side traditionally imposes a tough, physical contest, banking on a compact midfield block and long balls aimed at their striker, Toni Martinez.
The main challenge for the hosts in this opener will be to break through Getafe’s disciplined backline. At the same time, Alaves’ defense must stay sharp to fend off the visitors’ counterattacks.
Getafe
Under Jose Bordalas, Getafe remain committed to their trademark style—maximum tenacity in midfield, slowing down the tempo, and disrupting the opponent’s passing game. I expect Getafe to approach this opening fixture with a clear focus on keeping a clean sheet.
Up front, Getafe will likely rely on the physicality of their forwards and set-piece routines. However, in away matches, the team rarely takes unnecessary risks and is content to battle it out for possession.
Probable lineups
- Alaves: Sivera - Tanaglia, Koski, Otto - Pérez, Ibáñez, Blanco, Aleñá, Enriquez - Martínez, Mañas
- Getafe: Soria - Abqar, Djené, Romero - Femenía, Mangala, Terrats, Davinchi - García, Martín, Satriano
Prediction
The opening round of the championship is always played with caution, as teams are just settling into competitive rhythm. Getafe’s defensive approach and Alaves’ compact backline make a match with no more than 1–2 goals the most likely scenario. My prediction: both teams to score – no.
