**Vitoria-Gasteiz, Basque Country** – As the crisp February air settles over the as-yet-unnamed venue in Vitoria-Gasteiz, anticipation mounts for a pivotal La Liga clash on Monday, February 23rd, 2026, at 20:00 GMT. Deportivo Alavés, the tenacious Basque warriors, prepare to host Girona FC, the Catalan darlings who have continued their meteoric rise in Spanish football. This encounter is more than just three points; it’s a microcosm of La Liga’s diverse landscape, pitting resilient pragmatism against dazzling attacking flair.

For Alavés, the stakes are clear: every point is a vital commodity in their perennial quest for Primera Division survival and consolidation. A victory here would not only provide a crucial buffer against the relegation zone but also inject a much-needed shot of confidence into a squad that often punches above its weight. The home crowd, renowned for their unwavering support, will demand a performance steeped in grit and determination.

Girona, on the other hand, arrive with their sights firmly set on European qualification, perhaps even daring to dream of the Champions League places that have become a tangible reality for them in recent seasons. Their free-flowing, attacking brand of football has captivated audiences, and maintaining their momentum against a tricky opponent like Alavés is paramount to achieving their lofty ambitions. Dropping points here could prove costly in a tightly contested race at the top.

This match promises a captivating tactical battle: Alavés’s disciplined defensive block and counter-attacking prowess against Girona’s intricate passing, relentless pressing, and offensive firepower. It’s a clash of philosophies, a test of wills, and a showcase of individual brilliance that no true football aficionado will want to miss.

### Current Form & Standings

The league table in late February 2026 paints a picture of contrasting fortunes and objectives for our two protagonists.

**Deportivo Alavés** currently find themselves battling in the lower mid-table, occupying **15th position** with **24 points** from 25 matches. Their goal difference stands at a concerning **-12 (22 goals scored, 34 conceded)**, highlighting their struggles in front of goal and occasional defensive lapses. Their recent form reflects their arduous season:
* **Last 5 matches:** L-D-W-L-D (5 points from 15)
* Loss vs. Real Betis (Away, 0-2)
* Draw vs. Celta Vigo (Home, 1-1)
* Win vs. Cadiz CF (Away, 1-0)
* Loss vs. Real Madrid (Home, 0-3)
* Draw vs. Getafe CF (Away, 0-0)
This inconsistent run indicates a team that fights hard but lacks the consistent cutting edge to turn draws into wins or avoid heavy defeats against top-tier opposition. Their home form has been their lifeline, where they often manage to grind out results, but they haven’t won at home in their last two outings. Momentum is fragile, and a strong performance here is essential to avoid being dragged further into the relegation mire.

**Girona FC**, by contrast, are enjoying another stellar campaign, sitting comfortably in **5th position** with an impressive **48 points** from 25 matches. Their attacking verve is evident in their goal difference of **+18 (49 goals scored, 31 conceded)**, making them one of the league’s most potent attacking forces. Their recent form showcases their quality and ambition:
* **Last 5 matches:** W-W-D-W-L (10 points from 15)
* Win vs. Athletic Bilbao (Home, 2-1)
* Win vs. Rayo Vallecano (Away, 3-0)
* Draw vs. Valencia CF (Home, 2-2)
* Win vs. Real Sociedad (Away, 1-0)
* Loss vs. FC Barcelona (Home, 1-3)
Despite a recent loss to the league leaders, Girona’s overall momentum is strong. They have demonstrated an ability to win both at home and on the road, often scoring freely. Their minor blips are usually against the absolute top teams, suggesting they are a formidable opponent for anyone outside the traditional ‘big three’. They will be eager to bounce back immediately from their Barcelona defeat and maintain their European push.

### Head-to-Head History

The historical rivalry between Deportivo Alavés and Girona FC, while not among La Liga’s most ancient, has nonetheless produced some intriguing encounters, particularly in recent years as both clubs have solidified their positions in the top flight. Their meetings often carry an extra edge, reflecting their contrasting styles and regional pride.

Overall, across all competitions, the head-to-head record is relatively balanced, a testament to Alavés’s resilience and Girona’s rise. Prior to this fixture, out of their 15 competitive meetings since 2015 (including La Liga, Segunda Division, and Copa del Rey):

* **Alavés Wins:** 6
* **Girona Wins:** 5
* **Draws:** 4

Looking at their recent Primera Division clashes, a pattern of tight, often low-scoring affairs has emerged, with home advantage frequently playing a significant role:
* **February 2025 (La Liga):** Girona FC 2 – 1 Deportivo Alavés
* Girona edged a closely fought contest at Montilivi, showcasing their late-game resilience.
* **September 2024 (La Liga):** Deportivo Alavés 0 – 0 Girona FC
* A cagey affair in Vitoria-Gasteiz saw both teams cancel each other out, with Alavés’s defensive solidity earning them a point.
* **May 2024 (La Liga):** Girona FC 2 – 2 Deportivo Alavés
* A thrilling end-of-season draw, where Alavés twice came from behind to snatch a point, demonstrating their fighting spirit.
* **November 2023 (La Liga):** Deportivo Alavés 1 – 0 Girona FC
* Alavés secured a crucial home victory with a solitary goal, a typical gritty performance.

Psychologically, neither team holds an overwhelming edge. Alavés can draw confidence from their ability to frustrate Girona, particularly at home, and their knack for grinding out results. Girona, conversely, will remember their recent victory at home and their superior league position, suggesting they possess the quality to overcome Alavés’s defensive setup. The memory of the 0-0 draw earlier in the season will also serve as a warning to Girona not to underestimate Alavés’s defensive capabilities. This history suggests we should anticipate a competitive match where tactical discipline and individual moments of brilliance will be key.

### Team News & Squad Analysis

Both teams approach this crucial fixture with their own set of challenges regarding player availability and squad depth. Managers will be meticulously planning their starting XIs to counter the opposition’s strengths while maximizing their own.

**Deportivo Alavés (Likely Formation: 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1)**

* **Injury Concerns:** Alavés are expected to be without their experienced centre-back and captain, **Víctor Laguardia**, who is recovering from a hamstring strain and is targeting a return next month. This is a significant blow to their defensive leadership. Young midfielder **Jon Guridi** is also doubtful with a minor knock, potentially limiting options in the engine room.
* **Suspensions:** No players are currently suspended for Alavés.
* **Key Players Available:**
* **Antonio Sivera (GK):** A reliable shot-stopper whose saves often keep Alavés in games.
* **Abdel Abqar (CB):** In Laguardia’s absence, the Moroccan defender will be crucial for organizing the backline.
* **Luis Rioja (LW):** Provides pace, directness, and a creative spark on the left wing, often their most dangerous attacking outlet.
* **Kike García (ST):** The veteran striker offers physical presence, hold-up play, and vital experience leading the line.
* **Carlos Benavídez (CM):** A tenacious defensive midfielder, essential for breaking up play and protecting the back four.
* **Squad Depth:** Alavés’s depth, particularly in attacking areas, remains a concern. They rely heavily on their starting XI, and injuries to key attacking players can severely blunt their threat. Midfield options are solid but lack a consistent creative force.
* **Likely Starting XI (4-2-3-1):**
Sivera; Gorosabel, Abqar, Marín, Duarte; Blanco, Benavídez; Rioja, Guevara, Vicente; Kike García.

**Girona FC (Likely Formation: 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1)**

* **Injury Concerns:** Girona’s star winger, **Savio**, has been carrying a minor muscle discomfort but is expected to be fit to start. Veteran defender **Juanpe** is still sidelined with a long-term knee injury, but his absence has been managed well by the squad’s depth.
* **Suspensions:** Midfielder **Yangel Herrera** is suspended for this match due to an accumulation of yellow cards, a significant blow to their midfield dynamism and defensive cover.
* **Key Players Available:**
* **Paulo Gazzaniga (GK):** A steady presence between the sticks, capable of crucial saves.
* **Eric García (CB):** The former Barcelona defender provides composure, excellent passing range, and tactical intelligence at the heart of defense.
* **Aleix García (CM):** The undisputed orchestrator of Girona’s midfield, dictating tempo and providing exquisite passes.
* **Artem Dovbyk (ST):** The powerful Ukrainian striker is their primary goal threat, combining physicality with clinical finishing.
* **Viktor Tsygankov (RW):** Offers creativity, dribbling, and a keen eye for goal from the right flank.
* **Squad Depth:** Girona boasts impressive depth, particularly in midfield and attack, allowing for tactical flexibility and fresh legs. The absence of Herrera will test their midfield options, but they have capable replacements like Pablo Torre or Iván Martín.
* **Likely Starting XI (4-3-3):**
Gazzaniga; Arnau Martínez, Eric García, David López, Miguel Gutiérrez; Aleix García, Iván Martín, Pablo Torre; Tsygankov, Dovbyk, Savio.

The absence of Laguardia for Alavés and Herrera for Girona will undoubtedly influence the tactical approaches. Alavés will need Abqar to step up as a leader, while Girona will miss Herrera’s defensive bite and box-to-box energy, potentially making them slightly more vulnerable in transition.

### Key Players to Watch

The outcome of this encounter will likely hinge on the performances of a few standout individuals who possess the quality to turn the tide in their team’s favour.

**From Deportivo Alavés:**

1. **Luis Rioja (Left Winger):** At 32, Rioja remains Alavés’s most consistent and dangerous attacking threat. His pace, direct dribbling, and ability to cut inside and shoot, or deliver dangerous crosses, are vital to Alavés’s counter-attacking strategy. With 4 goals and 3 assists this season, he often carries the creative burden. Against Girona’s attacking full-backs, Rioja’s ability to exploit space on the counter will be paramount. His duel with Arnau Martínez or Yan Couto (if he plays right-back) will be a fascinating one. If Alavés are to score, chances are Rioja will be involved.

2. **Carlos Benavídez (Central Midfielder):** The Uruguayan midfielder is the engine room and defensive shield for Alavés. His relentless energy, ball-winning ability, and tactical discipline are crucial for breaking up opposition attacks and protecting the back four. In a game where Alavés will likely concede possession, Benavídez’s role in disrupting Girona’s intricate passing patterns and winning second balls will be immense. He will be tasked with stifling the likes of Aleix García and Iván Martín, and his ability to win midfield duels will dictate how much pressure Girona can apply.

**From Girona FC:**

1. **Aleix García (Central Midfielder):** The heartbeat of Girona, Aleix García is the quintessential deep-lying playmaker. His vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game are unmatched in the squad. With 5 goals and 7 assists this season, he is both a creator and a scorer. Against Alavés’s compact midfield, his ability to find pockets of space, unlock defenses with incisive passes, and unleash long-range efforts will be key. He is the primary conduit through which Girona’s attacks flow, and containing him will be Alavés’s top priority.

2. **Artem Dovbyk (Striker):** The powerful Ukrainian forward has continued his prolific form into the 2025/26 season, leading Girona’s line with devastating effect. His combination of strength, aerial prowess, and clinical finishing makes him a constant threat. With 14 goals already, he is a contender for the Pichichi trophy. Against Alavés’s central defenders, Dovbyk’s physical presence will be a handful, both in open play and from set pieces. His ability to hold up the ball and bring wingers into play, or simply finish chances created by his teammates, will be crucial in breaking down Alavés’s resolute defense.

3. **Savio (Left Winger):** The Brazilian sensation, even with a minor knock, remains one of La Liga’s most exciting talents. His electrifying pace, audacious dribbling, and flair on the left wing create constant problems for opposition defenses. With 6 goals and 8 assists, he is a primary source of creativity and direct goal threat. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one, cut inside, or deliver dangerous crosses will be vital for Girona, especially against a deep-sitting Alavés defense. His individual brilliance can often unlock stubborn backlines.

### Tactical Breakdown

This match presents a classic tactical contrast: Alavés’s structured, defensive solidity against Girona’s fluid, attacking philosophy.

**Deportivo Alavés (Expected Formation: 4-2-3-1 / 4-4-2)**

* **Playing Style:** Alavés will adopt a pragmatic, defensively oriented approach. They are likely to sit in a compact mid-to-low block, denying Girona space between the lines. Their primary objective will be to frustrate Girona, limit their creative avenues, and absorb pressure.
* **Defensive Setup:** Expect a disciplined back four, protected by two industrious central midfielders (Benavídez and Blanco/Guevara) who will focus on screening the defense and winning second balls. The wide midfielders (Rioja and Vicente) will track back diligently to form a narrow defensive shape, turning the 4-2-3-1 into a virtual 4-4-2 out of possession. Pressing will be selective, likely triggered in their own half when Girona enters their defensive third.
* **Build-up Patterns:** When they win possession, Alavés will look to transition quickly, often with direct passes to their wide players or the lone striker. Long balls over the top for Kike García or quick exchanges involving Rioja and Vicente will be their main outlets. Set pieces, both offensive and defensive, will be heavily emphasized, as they represent a significant goal threat and a chance to relieve pressure.
* **Key Focus:** Defensive organization, physical battles, counter-attacking efficiency, and maximizing set-piece opportunities.

**Girona FC (Expected Formation: 4-3-3 / 4-2-3-1)**

* **Playing Style:** Girona will seek to dominate possession, dictate the tempo, and impose their free-flowing, attacking football. They aim to break down Alavés’s low block through intricate passing, fluid movement, and width provided by their full-backs and wingers.
* **Defensive Setup:** When not in possession, Girona employs a high press, aiming to win the ball back quickly in advanced areas. Their defensive line will push high, compressing the pitch and forcing Alavés into hurried clearances. In deeper areas, they will rely on their central defenders (Eric García, David López) to read the game and their central midfielders (Aleix García, Iván Martín, Pablo Torre) to cover ground and win back possession.
* **Build-up Patterns:** Build-up will start from the back, with Gazzaniga and the central defenders playing out short. Aleix García will be the central pivot, orchestrating play and distributing the ball. Full-backs Arnau Martínez and Miguel Gutiérrez will be crucial in providing width and overlapping runs, effectively acting as auxiliary wingers. The front three (Tsygankov, Dovbyk, Savio) will interchange positions, making intelligent runs into the box and looking to exploit any defensive disorganization.
* **Key Focus:** Possession dominance, creating overloads in wide areas, penetrative passes through the lines, and clinical finishing.

**Tactical Matchup:**

The game will likely see Girona dominating possession, patiently probing Alavés’s compact defense. The key for Girona will be their ability to find spaces between Alavés’s lines, exploit the channels behind their full-backs with overlapping runs, and test Sivera with shots from distance or intricate combinations in the box. Alavés, conversely, will need to maintain their defensive discipline for the full 90 minutes, minimizing errors, and being clinical on the rare occasions they manage to launch a counter-attack. The battle in central midfield, particularly how Alavés’s Benavídez and Blanco cope with Aleix García, will be pivotal. Set pieces could also be a major factor, with both teams possessing aerial threats.

### Strengths vs. Weaknesses

A closer look at the inherent qualities and vulnerabilities of both teams reveals where this match might be won and lost.

**Deportivo Alavés**

* **Strengths:**
* **Defensive Organization:** Under their current management, Alavés are renowned for their compact shape, tactical discipline, and ability to frustrate superior attacking teams. They are difficult to break down, especially at home.
* **Physicality & Tenacity:** They are a physically robust side, strong in duels and relentless in their pressing within their defensive third. They rarely shy away from a battle.
* **Counter-Attacking Threat:** With the pace of Luis Rioja and directness of Kike García, they possess the tools to hurt teams on the break, especially when the opposition commits players forward.
* **Home Advantage:** The fervent support of their Vitoria-Gasteiz faithful often provides an extra boost, making their home ground a tough place for visitors.
* **Weaknesses:**
* **Goal-Scoring Inconsistency:** Their biggest Achilles’ heel remains their struggle to consistently find the back of the net. They often create few clear-cut chances and can be wasteful.
* **Lack of Creative Depth:** Beyond Luis Rioja, genuine creative spark can be limited, making them predictable at times, especially when faced with well-organized defenses.
* **Susceptibility to Sustained Pressure:** While organized, prolonged periods of pressure can eventually lead to defensive errors or fatigue, particularly against teams with high-quality attackers.
* **Vulnerability to Set Pieces (Attacking):** While good defensively from set pieces, their attacking output from corners and free-kicks is often underwhelming despite having some aerial threats.

**Girona FC**

* **Strengths:**
* **Fluid Attacking Play:** Their intricate passing, intelligent movement, and ability to create chances from various angles make them one of the league’s most exciting and dangerous attacking units.
* **Creative Midfield:** Led by Aleix García, their midfield is adept at controlling possession, dictating tempo, and unlocking defenses with incisive passes.
* **Goal-Scoring Prowess:** With Dovbyk leading the line and contributions from wingers like Savio and Tsygankov, they consistently find the back of the net.
* **High Press & Work Rate:** They are relentless in their pressing, aiming to win the ball back high up the pitch and launch quick attacks, often catching opponents off guard.
* **Weaknesses:**
* **Vulnerability to Quick Counters:** When pushing high, their defensive line can be exposed by fast breaks, especially if their midfield doesn’t track back effectively.
* **Defensive Lapses:** While generally solid, individual errors or moments of defensive disorganization can occur, particularly in high-pressure situations.
* **Reliance on Key Attacking Players:** While they have depth, the absence or poor form of players like Dovbyk, Savio, or Aleix García can significantly impact their offensive output.
* **Mental Fortitude in Tight Games:** While they have improved, there are still questions about their ability to grind out results when their free-flowing football isn’t quite clicking, especially against deeply entrenched defenses.

**How They May Exploit Each Other:**

* **Girona against Alavés:** Girona will look to exploit any momentary lapses in Alavés’s defensive shape, particularly in the channels behind their full-backs, where Savio and Tsygankov can thrive. Aleix García will try to pull Alavés’s midfielders out of position to create space for Dovbyk or late runs from midfield. They will also target Alavés’s occasional struggles in playing out from the back, applying a high press to force turnovers.
* **Alavés against Girona:** Alavés will aim to frustrate Girona by remaining compact and disciplined, forcing them wide and limiting space in central areas. Their primary avenue for attack will be quick transitions, hitting Girona on the break when their full-backs are high up the pitch. Luis Rioja will be crucial in exploiting the space left behind Arnau Martínez. Set pieces will also be a major focus for Alavés, looking to capitalize on any defensive disorganization from Girona.

### Match Prediction & Betting Odds

This fixture pits two teams with clear objectives and contrasting styles, making a definitive prediction challenging, but Girona’s superior form, attacking quality, and league position make them the favorites. However, Alavés’s home advantage and defensive resilience cannot be underestimated.

**Prediction:** Girona FC to win a hard-fought encounter.

**Score Prediction:** Deportivo Alavés 1 – 2 Girona FC

**Key Factors That Will Decide the Game:**

1. **Girona’s Patience vs. Alavés’s Resilience:** Can Girona unlock the Alavés low block without becoming frustrated or exposed to counters? Their ability to maintain intensity and find creative solutions will be paramount.
2. **Clinical Finishing:** Both teams will likely have fewer clear-cut chances than in other games. The team that is more clinical in front of goal will likely emerge victorious. Dovbyk’s form will be crucial for Girona, while Alavés needs Kike García or Rioja to convert any opportunities.
3. **Midfield Battle:** The contest between Aleix García and Alavés’s defensive midfielders (Benavídez, Blanco) will be central. If Alavés can disrupt Girona’s rhythm and prevent García from dictating play, they stand a much better chance.
4. **Set Pieces:** In a tight game, a single corner or free-kick could be the difference-maker. Both teams have aerial threats, and defensive discipline on set pieces will be vital.

**Analysis of Likely Match Events:**

* **First Goal Scorer:** Artem Dovbyk (Girona) or Luis Rioja (Alavés) are strong candidates.
* **Corners:** Girona is likely to have a higher number of corners due to their attacking dominance and sustained pressure. Expect 6+ corners for Girona.
* **Cards:** Given Alavés’s physical approach and Girona’s quick transitions, expect a few yellow cards, particularly for Alavés’s defensive midfielders. A red card is less likely but not impossible in a heated contest.
* **Match Flow:** Girona will dominate possession from the start, probing Alavés’s defense. Alavés will look to absorb pressure and hit on the counter, potentially growing into the game in the second half if they can frustrate Girona. An early goal for Girona could open the game up, while an Alavés goal could force Girona to become even more aggressive.

**Hypothetical Betting Odds:**

* **Girona Win:** 1.85
* **Draw:** 3.50
* **Alavés Win:** 4.20
* **Both Teams to Score (Yes):** 1.90
* **Over 2.5 Goals:** 2.10

### Conclusion

As the sun sets on Vitoria-Gasteiz, the stage is perfectly set for a captivating La Liga encounter. Deportivo Alavés, fueled by the passion of their home crowd and their unwavering commitment to survival, will present a formidable challenge. Their disciplined defense and opportunistic counter-attacks have proven to be a banana skin for many a top team.

However, Girona FC arrives with the swagger of a team destined for European football. Their vibrant, attacking brand of football, orchestrated by Aleix García and spearheaded by Artem Dovbyk, possesses the quality to break down even the most resolute defenses. This match is a test of Girona’s patience and creativity against Alavés’s grit and tactical discipline.

Will Alavés’s resilience be enough to blunt Girona’s attacking prowess and snatch a crucial home victory, or will Girona’s relentless pursuit of European glory see them overcome the Basque challenge? Whatever the outcome, this Monday night fixture promises to be a compelling battle of wills, tactics, and individual brilliance that will have significant implications for both ends of the La Liga table. Prepare for a tense, tactical, and ultimately enthralling contest under the lights.