FC Barcelona host Alavés on Saturday

FC Barcelona, currently top of La Liga two points ahead of Atlético Madrid and three ahead of Real Madrid, host Deportivo Alavés at the Camp Nou on Saturday at 9 p.m. The Blaugrana are looking to bounce back after losing to Real Madrid in the Clasico last week (1-2).

Line-ups

FC Barcelona will field an attacking side with Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski up front. Hansi Flick will, however, have to stay alert to the defensive transitions against Alavés's counter-attacks.

Bottom of La Liga, Alavés arrive in Barcelona with a solid side that is, on paper, less well-equipped in attack. Fermín López and Lucas Boyé will probably start for the visitors.

Background to the match

FC Barcelona have made a convincing start to the league season, despite that defeat to Real Madrid, which could prove costly in the title race. A win against Alavés would let the Catalans regain their confidence and put pressure on their main rivals.

For their part, the Basques will need to be well-organised at the back if they are to pull off a surprise at the home of the league leaders. Their ability to withstand the Catalans' repeated attacks will be crucial if they are to avoid a heavy defeat.

History

Historically, meetings between FC Barcelona and Alavés have often gone the Catalan side's way. The Blaugrana generally hold a significant technical advantage over their opponents.