Beasain vs Alaves B on February 14
The stage is set for a captivating clash in the Segunda RFEF as Beasain hosts Alavés B on February 14th. With both teams fighting for crucial points in the lower tiers of Spanish football, the stakes couldn't be higher. Beasain, hovering mid-table, are looking to push for the top spots, while Alavés B, struggling for consistency, aim to pull away from the relegation zone. The tactical battle between these two sides promises to be both tense and exhilarating, with tactical nuances that will determine the outcome. With clear skies expected, the dry pitch should allow both teams to show their technical qualities to full effect.
Beasain: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Beasain's current form has been a bit erratic, with three wins and two losses in their last five matches. However, their tactical setup remains a well-oiled machine built around high pressing and quick transitions. Coach Imanol Larrañaga has primarily relied on a 4-3-3 formation, with the midfield three working hard to break up opposition attacks before quickly moving the ball forward to the attacking trio. This system focuses on winning second balls and quickly exploiting spaces left behind by opposition defenders. Beasain's passing accuracy in the final third stands at a solid 72%, and they frequently dominate possession, with an average of 60% in their last five matches.
One of their key strengths is pressing high up the pitch. They average 20 successful pressing actions per match, putting significant pressure on the opposition’s defenders. This makes their full-backs, especially the right-back, crucial in both defensive transitions and overlapping runs into the final third. Beasain has scored an impressive 11 goals in their last 5 outings, showcasing their ability to break down defensive blocks. However, they have struggled defensively at times, conceding 8 goals in the same period, and will need to tighten up at the back against a tricky opponent like Alavés B.
Beasain's engine in midfield is undoubtedly their captain, Xabi Matheu, who controls the tempo of the game with his precise passing. Matheu’s ability to dictate play and break up opposition moves will be crucial in nullifying Alavés B’s attacking threat. Forward, Aritz Arambarri, who has been in excellent form with 4 goals in his last 5 games, will be key in exploiting spaces left by Alavés B’s defenders and linking up with the attacking players.
In terms of injuries, Beasain’s left-back, Ander Rodríguez, is ruled out, which may disrupt their defensive stability. His replacement will need to be at the top of their game, as Alavés B’s right winger, who is known for his pace, could target that flank.
Alavés B: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Alavés B’s recent form has been inconsistent, managing just one win and four losses in their last five games. This has left them hovering dangerously close to the relegation zone, which makes this match a must-win for the visitors. Alavés B has favored a 4-4-2 formation in recent weeks, with two banks of four defending deep and looking to break on the counterattack. Their tactics revolve around a solid defensive structure, relying on long balls from deep to release their wingers or forwards into wide spaces. With a possession average of only 48%, they prefer to cede control and strike quickly when the opportunity arises.
Their counter-attacking play will be their primary weapon in this matchup. Alavés B has been successful in finding space on the counter, with their wingers—especially the left winger, Jonatan Rodríguez—creating havoc on the break. Rodríguez, in particular, is a danger with his dribbling and ability to make runs behind opposition defences. Alavés B has struggled to hold possession in the final third, with a poor pass accuracy rate of just 66%, but they are a dangerous team when allowed to break quickly.
Defensively, Alavés B’s key figure is centre-back, Íñigo López, who has been a stalwart at the back. His ability to read the game and his leadership in organising the defensive line will be crucial against Beasain's high pressing system. The partnership with fellow centre-back, Xabi Loidi, will need to be on point to prevent Beasain’s attackers from getting into dangerous positions. Alavés B has conceded 9 goals in their last 5 matches, and their defensive vulnerabilities will be tested once again in this encounter.
In terms of injuries, Alavés B will be without their influential midfielder, Ander Garmendia, who has been sidelined due to a knee injury. This loss will hurt them as Garmendia’s ability to break up play and transition quickly was key to their counter-attacking style. His absence leaves a significant gap in midfield, which could allow Beasain to dominate the middle of the park.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
When these two teams have met in the past, the encounters have been closely contested. In their last three meetings, Beasain has won two, and Alavés B has won one. However, it’s worth noting that Alavés B secured their victory in the most recent encounter, with a 2-1 win at home. The nature of these games has typically been combative, with plenty of midfield duels and counter-attacks, which suggests this game could once again be decided in the transitions.
Psychologically, Beasain will feel the pressure to win, given their higher position in the league and their ambitions to climb further up the table. Alavés B, on the other hand, will be motivated to fight for survival, and their recent form shows they are capable of being a tricky opponent despite their struggles. Expect a nervy start with both teams wary of conceding an early goal.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the key battles will be in the wide areas, particularly Beasain’s left-back position, which could be vulnerable without Ander Rodríguez. Alavés B’s right-winger will look to exploit this space, making it a critical duel between the full-back and the winger. If Beasain can nullify this threat, they will have a significant advantage in controlling the game.
Another critical battle will be in midfield, where Beasain’s Xabi Matheu will need to control the tempo and dictate play. However, with the absence of Garmendia, Alavés B could struggle to disrupt the flow of the game. Beasain’s pressing system will look to isolate the Alavés B midfielders, and if they succeed, they could dominate possession and create more chances in the final third.
Finally, the centre-back duel between Beasain’s striker and Alavés B’s Íñigo López will be decisive. López’s experience and composure under pressure will be tested, especially with Beasain’s pacey forward line looking to exploit any space behind the defence.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Given Beasain’s superior form and tactical setup, they will likely control possession and look to break down Alavés B’s defensive block. The visitors, meanwhile, will rely heavily on counter-attacks and hope to exploit spaces left by Beasain’s attacking full-backs. If Beasain can disrupt Alavés B’s counter-attacking rhythm early, they should be able to create enough chances to secure a win. However, Alavés B’s resilience cannot be discounted, and they may well take advantage of any Beasain defensive lapses.
In terms of key statistics, expect Beasain to dominate possession (around 60%) and register more shots on goal, while Alavés B will likely have a lower xG due to their reliance on counter-attacks. In terms of goals, a 2-1 victory for Beasain seems a likely outcome, with both teams finding the back of the net.
Final Thoughts
This match will ultimately answer the question: Can Beasain maintain their push for promotion, or will Alavés B’s fighting spirit pull them out of the relegation battle? The outcome hinges on Beasain’s ability to break down Alavés B’s defence and whether the visitors can make the most of their counter-attacks. Expect a tense and tactical battle, with Beasain coming out on top with a narrow victory.
