Snorefest on Friday night
Struggling Alaves host Atletico Madrid in La Liga’s Friday night action as Diego Simeone’s men look to post a solid defence of their shock title win last term. The visitors come in as heavy favourites against an Alaves side who have only scored once in the league this season, as they look to contain Atleti the Mattress Makers will be looking to break their two game drought. With Thomas Lemar scoring last for Simeone’s men in a win over newly promoted Espanyol. For an angle in I initially wanted to utilise the Asian Handicap to give Alaves a headstart but there is little value and Atleti could hit their straps on the night.
Process
In terms of expected goals (xG) Atleti are averaging 1.47 xGF per game, not title winning numbers but with how strong they have defensively over the years they are more than likely to push on for another top four finish. They have the fourth best defensive process in the division after the opening six games, averaging just 0.78 xGA per game which considering Alaves are only posting 0.78 xGF put game will make Jan Oblak pretty confident he has a good chance of keeping a clean sheet in this matchup.
Alaves were fortunate to stay up last season after producing some positive streaks and some extremely poor ones. If they continue to be as toothless in attack for much longer, their season will end in relegation.
Transfers
The Mattress Makers made some marquee additions this summer, showing no signs of falling away from Real Madrid and Barcelona. Diego Simeone has done one of the most incredible managerial jobs at Atleti this century, leading the club in financial trouble out of a La Liga relegation battle to two league titles, two Champions League finals and much more.
Antoine Griezmann is a romantic signing initially on loan from Barcelona, reunited with the side which brought him so much success. Matheus Cunha from Hertha Berlin could be a signing that slips under the radar this summer. The former RB Leipzig man has the ability to be one of the most exciting players in the division this term and is a good age to add to the squad.
Rodrigo De Paul to complete the trio from Udinese, fresh off the back of a Copa America triumph with Argentina De Paul is a goal threat from midfield areas and completes a very intriguing squad in the Spanish capital.
Atleti are decent but will be squeezed by Alaves desperate for their first points of the season.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
1-0 Alaves. Comfortable winner.