Levante UD vs. Deportivo Alavés: A Mid-Table Melee with European Aspirations on the Line

Competition: Primera Division
Date: 2026-02-27 20:00:00
Venue: Unknown Venue (For the purpose of this article, we will assume a home venue for Levante: Ciutat de València)

1. INTRODUCTION

As the Spanish Primera Division season hurtles towards its climactic final third, every point becomes a precious commodity, capable of propelling teams towards continental glory or consigning them to the dreaded drop. This Friday evening clash at the Ciutat de València between Levante UD and Deportivo Alavés is far more than just a routine fixture; it’s a battle for momentum, a test of resolve, and a potential turning point for both clubs.

Levante, the home side, find themselves in a tantalizing position, hovering just outside the European qualification spots. A victory here could catapult them into the top six, fueling dreams of a return to continental competition. Their passionate supporters will be demanding nothing less than three points to solidify their ambitions. For Deportivo Alavés, the stakes are equally high, albeit with a different flavor. Currently entrenched in the lower mid-table, a win would provide crucial breathing room from the relegation zone and allow them to look upwards with renewed optimism. A loss, however, could drag them back into the dogfight, intensifying the pressure as the season progresses.

This encounter promises a compelling tactical duel between two sides with distinct approaches. Levante’s attacking verve, often characterized by fluid movement and creative midfield play, will clash with Alavés’ renowned defensive discipline and penchant for rapid transitions. Fans should anticipate a fiercely contested match, rich in tactical intrigue, individual brilliance, and the raw emotion that only La Liga can deliver. The outcome of this game will undoubtedly shape the narrative for both teams in the crucial weeks to come.

2. CURRENT FORM & STANDINGS

Levante UD:
Currently sitting in 7th position in the Primera Division table with 38 points from 25 games, Levante are enjoying a commendable season, defying pre-season expectations. Their goal difference of +5 (35 goals scored, 30 conceded) reflects a balanced, albeit sometimes vulnerable, approach. In their last ten league outings, Levante have demonstrated a resilient streak, securing 5 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses.
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches): W-D-W-L-W
Vs. Real Betis (A): 2-1 Win (Morales 80′, Bardhi 90+2′) – A dramatic comeback victory.
Vs. Getafe CF (H): 1-1 Draw (Campaña 35′ (P)) – Frustrating draw against a stubborn opponent.
Vs. Cadiz CF (A): 3-0 Win (Roger 15′, De Frutos 55′, Morales 78′) – Dominant away performance.
Vs. Real Sociedad (H): 0-2 Loss – Outplayed by a top-four contender.
Vs. RCD Mallorca (A): 1-0 Win (Melero 67′) – Gritty away win showcasing defensive solidity.
Levante’s momentum is positive, having bounced back from the Sociedad defeat with two strong performances. Their home form has been particularly impressive, turning the Ciutat de València into a fortress where they’ve lost only twice this season. Their ability to score late goals and fight back from losing positions highlights a strong team spirit and mental fortitude.

Deportivo Alavés:
Alavés occupy 14th place in the league standings, accumulating 26 points from 25 matches. Their goal difference of -12 (22 goals scored, 34 conceded) underscores their struggles in front of goal and occasional defensive frailties. Over their last ten league fixtures, Alavés have endured a more inconsistent run, registering 3 wins, 4 draws, and 3 losses.
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches): D-L-W-D-L
Vs. Granada CF (H): 0-0 Draw – A cagey affair, missed chances to secure three points.
Vs. Villarreal CF (A): 1-3 Loss (Joselu 20′) – Overwhelmed by a superior opponent.
Vs. Elche CF (H): 2-0 Win (Rioja 40′, Battaglia 70′) – Crucial home victory against a relegation rival.
Vs. CA Osasuna (A): 2-2 Draw (Pons 5′, Mendez 88′) – Resilient comeback from two goals down.
Vs. Atlético Madrid (H): 0-1 Loss – Narrow defeat against the league leaders, showing defensive resilience.
Alavés come into this game on the back of a tough run, particularly struggling to convert draws into wins. Their away form has been a concern, with only two wins on the road all season. While they demonstrated defensive solidity against Atlético Madrid, their attacking output remains a significant worry. They will be looking to their defensive organization and opportunistic counter-attacks to snatch points away from home.

3. HEAD-TO-HEAD HISTORY

The historical rivalry between Levante UD and Deportivo Alavés, while not one of La Liga’s most high-profile, has often been characterized by closely contested encounters and tactical battles. Across all competitions, the two clubs have met 31 times.
Overall Record:
Levante Wins: 12
Draws: 8
Alavés Wins: 11
The statistics suggest a finely balanced rivalry, with neither side holding a significant psychological edge over the long term.

Recent Encounters:
The last five Primera Division meetings between these two sides have been particularly tight:
2025-26 Season (Reverse Fixture): Deportivo Alavés 1-0 Levante UD (Luis Rioja 65′) – A hard-fought victory for Alavés at Mendizorroza, decided by a moment of individual brilliance. This result will be fresh in Levante’s memory, fueling a desire for revenge.
2024-25 Season:
Levante UD 2-2 Deportivo Alavés (Morales 30′, Roger 70′ | Pellistri 45′, Joselu 85′) – A thrilling draw at the Ciutat de València where Alavés snatched a late equalizer.
Deportivo Alavés 1-0 Levante UD (Guidetti 60′) – Another narrow home win for Alavés.
2023-24 Season:
Levante UD 3-1 Deportivo Alavés (Campaña 20′(P), De Frutos 50′, Melero 75′ | Edgar Méndez 80′) – A comfortable home victory for Levante, showcasing their attacking prowess.
Deportivo Alavés 0-0 Levante UD – A goalless stalemate characterized by strong defensive displays from both sides.

Injury Concerns:
Carlos Clerc (LB): Out with a hamstring strain, expected to return in a couple of weeks. His absence is a blow to the defensive left flank.
José Campaña (CM): Still recovering from a knee issue, a major creative force missed in midfield. He’s listed as doubtful, but unlikely to start.
Shkodran Mustafi (CB): The experienced defender is fit but has seen limited minutes recently, falling behind the preferred partnership.

Suspensions: None.

Players Returning from Injury:
Enis Bardhi (CM/AM): Fully fit and expected to start, providing much-needed creativity and set-piece prowess.

Key Players Available:
José Luis Morales (ST/LW): The evergreen captain and talisman.
Roger Martí (ST): Prolific goalscorer, known for his clinical finishing.
Jorge de Frutos (RW): Pace, trickery, and crossing ability on the right wing.
Mickael Malsa (CDM): Energetic and combative presence in midfield.
Dani Cárdenas (GK): Reliable shot-stopper.

Likely Starting XI:
Cárdenas; Miramón, Vezo, Rober Pier, Saracchi; De Frutos, Malsa, Pepelu, Bardhi; Morales, Roger Martí.

Squad Depth: Levante’s bench offers decent options, particularly in attack with Cantero and Soldado available to make an impact. The midfield depth is slightly thinner without Campaña, but Melero provides a solid alternative. Saracchi, likely filling in for Clerc, will need to be defensively astute. The blend of youth and experience, particularly in the forward line, gives them flexibility.

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

Injury Concerns:
Tomás Pina (CDM): Still sidelined with a long-term knee injury, a significant loss for their midfield engine room.
Luis García (ST): The promising young striker is out with a muscle strain, reducing their attacking options from the bench.

Suspensions: None.

Players Returning from Injury:
Rubén Duarte (LB): Fully recovered from a minor knock and expected to slot straight back into the starting lineup.

Key Players Available:
Joselu (ST): The focal point of their attack, strong in the air and a clinical finisher.
Luis Rioja (LW): Pacy winger, direct and capable of moments of magic.
Antonio Blanco (CDM): The Real Madrid loanee has been a consistent performer, anchoring the midfield.
Víctor Laguardia (CB): Experienced and commanding center-back, a leader in defense.
Pacheco (GK): Reliable and often makes crucial saves.

Likely Starting XI:
Pacheco; Aguirregabiria, Laguardia, Lejeune, Duarte; Moya, Blanco, Battaglia; Edgar Méndez, Joselu, Luis Rioja.

Squad Depth: Alavés’s depth is more focused on defensive solidity and work rate. Players like Manu García and Pellistri offer energy and directness from the bench, but they lack significant game-changing attacking options beyond their starting front three. The midfield, while robust, can sometimes lack creative spark without Pina. The return of Duarte is a boost for their defensive stability.

5. KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

Levante UD:

1. José Luis Morales (Forward/Captain): The heart and soul of Levante. At 38, “El Comandante” continues to defy age with his electric pace, dribbling ability, and clinical finishing. He leads the team in goals this season with 9 and has contributed 4 assists. His ability to cut in from the left wing or play as a secondary striker makes him incredibly difficult to mark. Morales thrives in big moments, and his leadership on the field is invaluable. Alavés defenders will need to be constantly aware of his late runs into the box and his capacity to create something out of nothing.

1. Enis Bardhi (Attacking Midfielder): The Macedonian international is the creative hub of Levante’s midfield. Known for his exquisite left foot, pinpoint passing range, and venomous free-kicks, Bardhi dictates the tempo and unlocks defenses. With 5 goals and 7 assists this season, his return to full fitness is a massive boost. He has a knack for finding pockets of space between the lines and linking up with the forwards. If Alavés allow him too much time on the ball, he has the vision to carve them open with a single pass or unleash a powerful shot from distance.

1. Jorge de Frutos (Right Winger): A livewire on the right flank, De Frutos provides blistering pace, direct running, and dangerous crosses. He has been a constant threat this season, contributing 4 goals and 6 assists. His work rate is exceptional, both in attack and defense, making him a crucial component of Levante’s pressing game. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one and deliver accurate balls into the box will test Alavés’s full-backs and central defenders.

Deportivo Alavés:

1. Joselu (Striker): The veteran target man is Alavés’s most potent attacking weapon and their leading scorer with 8 goals this season. Joselu’s immense physical presence, aerial dominance, and hold-up play are crucial for Alavés’s direct style. He is adept at winning flick-ons, bringing wingers into play, and is surprisingly clinical inside the box. Levante’s central defenders, Vezo and Rober Pier, will have their hands full dealing with his strength and intelligent movement. He also poses a significant threat from set-pieces.

1. Luis Rioja (Left Winger): The pacy and skillful winger is the primary source of creativity and directness for Alavés on the flanks. With 4 goals and 3 assists, Rioja is capable of dribbling past defenders, cutting inside to shoot, or delivering dangerous crosses. His goal in the reverse fixture against Levante highlights his ability to produce match-winning moments. Miramón, Levante’s right-back, will need to be extremely disciplined to nullify Rioja’s threat and prevent him from exploiting space behind the defense.

1. Antonio Blanco (Defensive Midfielder): On loan from Real Madrid, Blanco has become an indispensable cog in Alavés’s midfield. His defensive intelligence, excellent positional sense, and ability to break up play are vital. He is a tenacious tackler and an effective ball-winner, providing a crucial shield for the back four. Blanco’s passing, while not always spectacular, is accurate and helps initiate Alavés’s transitions. His battle against Levante’s creative midfielders like Bardhi and Pepelu will be central to controlling the tempo of the game.

6. TACTICAL BREAKDOWN

Levante UD:
Expected Formation: 4-4-2 or a flexible 4-2-3-1 that often shifts.
Playing Style: Levante under their current coach typically employs a fluid, possession-based approach, but with a strong emphasis on quick transitions and direct attacks, especially through their wide players like De Frutos and the late runs of Morales. They like to build from the back, utilizing the technical ability of Pepelu and Malsa in midfield.
Build-up: They aim to play through the lines, with Bardhi dropping deep to receive the ball and orchestrate attacks. Full-backs (Miramón, Saracchi) are encouraged to push high and wide, providing width and overlapping runs.
Pressing Intensity: They tend to press high in phases, particularly after losing possession in the opponent’s half, aiming to win the ball back quickly and launch counter-attacks. However, they can also drop into a mid-block when facing strong possession sides.
Defensive Set-up: A relatively compact back four, with the two central midfielders providing a shield. Their vulnerability often comes from wide areas when full-backs are caught high, or from individual errors.
Set-piece Threat: With Bardhi’s delivery, they are dangerous from free-kicks and corners, often targeting Vezo and Rober Pier, or looking for quick routines.

Deportivo Alavés:
Expected Formation: A rigid 4-3-3 that can morph into a 4-5-1 or 5-4-1 defensively.
Playing Style: Alavés are known for their defensive solidity, disciplined organization, and counter-attacking prowess. They prioritize denying space to the opposition, sitting deep, and then launching quick attacks, often utilizing Joselu’s hold-up play and the pace of Rioja and Méndez.
Build-up: Their build-up is often more direct. They are comfortable bypassing the midfield with long balls to Joselu, or looking for quick passes to their wingers to initiate breaks. When they do play short, it’s typically to draw out the opposition before going long.
Pressing Intensity: They mostly employ a mid-to-low block, rarely committing to a high press. Their focus is on maintaining defensive shape and reducing space in their own half, then pressing aggressively once the opposition enters their defensive third.
Defensive Set-up: A very well-drilled back four, with the midfield trio (Blanco, Moya, Battaglia) providing a robust screen. Laguardia and Lejeune are strong in aerial duels and positioning. They are excellent at closing down passing lanes and forcing opponents wide.
Set-piece Threat: Joselu is a major aerial threat from corners and free-kicks, and Alavés often designs routines to maximize his chances. They are also defensively sound on set-pieces.

Tactical Matchup:
The game will likely be a classic clash of styles. Levante will aim to dominate possession, circulate the ball quickly, and use their creative players (Bardhi, Morales, De Frutos) to break down Alavés’s compact defense. The key for Levante will be patience and precision in their passing, avoiding turnovers in dangerous areas that could lead to Alavés counters. The battle in central midfield, particularly between Levante’s Pepelu and Malsa against Alavés’s Blanco, Moya, and Battaglia, will be crucial for controlling the tempo and supply lines.

Alavés, on the other hand, will look to absorb pressure, frustrate Levante, and then exploit any mistakes or spaces left behind. Their strategy will revolve around feeding Joselu, either directly or through wide crosses, and unleashing Rioja and Méndez on the counter-attack. The full-back battle will be intense; Miramón vs. Rioja and Saracchi vs. Méndez will be key duels. Alavés will also look to capitalize on set-pieces, where Joselu’s aerial ability could be decisive. Levante will need to be wary of their defensive transitions and ensure they track back effectively.

7. STRENGTHS vs WEAKNESSES

Levante UD:

Strengths:
Attacking Flair & Creativity: With Morales, Bardhi, and De Frutos, they possess players capable of moments of brilliance, creating chances, and scoring goals.
Home Form: The Ciutat de València is a tough place for visitors, providing a significant psychological boost.
Resilience & Fighting Spirit: They’ve shown a knack for late goals and comebacks, indicating strong team morale.
Versatile Forwards: Roger and Morales offer different attacking profiles, providing tactical flexibility.

Weaknesses:
Defensive Vulnerability (Transitions): Can be exposed on the counter-attack, especially when full-backs push high.
Over-reliance on Key Individuals: If Morales or Bardhi are neutralized, their attacking output can significantly drop.
Inconsistency in Defense: Prone to individual errors or lapses in concentration at the back.
Midfield Depth (without Campaña): While Malsa and Pepelu are solid, the absence of Campaña reduces their creative options from deep.

Deportivo Alavés:

Strengths:
Defensive Organization & Discipline: Very difficult to break down, with a well-drilled backline and midfield screen.
Physicality & Aerial Threat: Strong in duels, particularly with Joselu and their central defenders, making them dangerous from set-pieces.
Counter-Attacking Prowess: Quick transitions and direct play can catch opponents off guard.
Goalkeeping: Pacheco is a reliable shot-stopper capable of making crucial saves.

Weaknesses:
Goal-scoring Struggles (Open Play): Often struggle to create clear-cut chances and can be overly reliant on Joselu.
Lack of Creative Midfield Play: Can struggle to dictate tempo or break down organized defenses through intricate passing.
Away Form: Historically struggle to pick up points on the road.
Susceptibility to Sustained Pressure: If an opponent can maintain high pressure and quick passing, Alavés can eventually crack.

How Opposition May Exploit Them:

Levante exploiting Alavés: Levante will aim to stretch Alavés’s compact defense by utilizing the width provided by De Frutos and Saracchi/Bardhi. They will try to draw Alavés’s midfielders out of position with quick passes and then exploit the space behind with through balls for Morales and Roger. Set-pieces, delivered by Bardhi, will also be a key avenue to test Alavés’s aerial prowess. Sustained pressure and quick combinations around the box could eventually open up the Alavés defense.

Alavés exploiting Levante: Alavés will look to frustrate Levante by sitting deep and denying space, forcing them into mistakes. Once possession is won, they will immediately look for direct balls to Joselu, who will aim to hold up play or flick on for the pacy Rioja and Méndez. They will target Levante’s full-backs, particularly Saracchi, who might be less defensively experienced. Any defensive errors or slow transitions from Levante will be pounced upon, and set-pieces will be a major weapon for Joselu.

8. MATCH PREDICTION & BETTING ODDS

This match presents a fascinating tactical challenge. Levante’s attacking flair and strong home form will be tested by Alavés’s defensive resilience and counter-attacking threat. While Alavés have shown they can frustrate top teams, their struggles to score consistently, especially away from home, remain a concern. Levante, buoyed by their European aspirations and recent form, will be relentless in their pursuit of three points.

The key factors will be Levante’s ability to break down a deep block, the individual brilliance of Morales and Bardhi, and Alavés’s capacity to contain these threats while making their counter-attacks count. The midfield battle for control and the effectiveness of each team’s set-pieces will also play a significant role.

Prediction: Levante UD 2 – 1 Deportivo Alavés

I anticipate a hard-fought game, with Levante dominating possession but finding it difficult to break Alavés down initially. However, the quality of Morales and Bardhi, combined with the home crowd’s backing, should eventually tell. Alavés will likely score from a set-piece or a quick counter-attack, making for a tense finish.

Key Factors Deciding the Game:

1. Levante’s Creativity vs. Alavés’s Defense: Can Bardhi and Morales unlock the Alavés backline?
2. Joselu’s Impact: How well can Levante’s center-backs neutralize Alavés’s main attacking threat?
3. Set-Pieces: Both teams pose a threat, and a goal from a dead ball situation could be crucial.
4. Home Advantage: The Ciutat de València crowd could be the ’12th man’ for Levante.

Analysis of Likely Match Events (Hypothetical Betting Odds):

Full-Time Result: Levante Win (Odds: 1.80) – Strong home form and attacking quality make them favorites.
Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes (Odds: 1.95) – Levante’s defensive vulnerabilities and Alavés’s counter/set-piece threat suggest both teams will find the net.
First Goal Scorer: José Luis Morales (Levante) (Odds: 5.50) – The captain often steps up in crucial moments. Joselu (Alavés) (Odds: 7.00) is also a strong candidate.
Total Goals (Over/Under 2.5): Over 2.5 Goals (Odds: 2.10) – While Alavés are defensive, Levante’s attacking prowess and their own counter-threat could lead to an open game.
Corners: Over 9.5 Corners (Odds: 1.85) – Levante will likely press and attack wide, leading to corners. Alavés might also win a few from counters.
Cards: Over 4.5 Cards (Odds: 1.90) – A competitive mid-table clash with high stakes often leads to a physical encounter and bookings.

9. CONCLUSION

This Friday night encounter at the Ciutat de València is poised to be a captivating display of La Liga football. For Levante, it’s an opportunity to solidify their European aspirations and exact revenge for an earlier season defeat. For Deportivo Alavés, it’s a chance to distance themselves from the relegation mire and prove their mettle against a team higher up the table.

The stage is set for a tactical chess match, where Levante’s vibrant attack will confront Alavés’s disciplined defense. Individual battles across the pitch – the agility of Morales against the stoicism of Laguardia, the creativity of Bardhi against the tenacity of Blanco, and the aerial prowess of Joselu against the resolve of Vezo – will likely dictate the flow and outcome of the game. Expect passion, intensity, and moments of brilliance. This isn’t just three points; it’s momentum, pride, and the very trajectory of their seasons on the line. Don’t miss what promises to be a thrilling contest.