Currently, Alavés sits precariously at 16th in the La Liga table, just two points clear of the relegation zone. Their recent victory against Mallorca — a crucial 2-1 win — has provided a glimmer of hope. Meanwhile, Athletic finds themselves in 10th place, three points adrift of European qualification. After suffering a disappointing 3-2 loss to Atlético Madrid in their last outing, they seek redemption.

Historically, this Basque derby has favored Athletic. Alavés have managed just nine wins out of 52 encounters across all competitions. Moreover, Athletic remains unbeaten away to Alavés since October 2020. This record looms large as both teams prepare for what promises to be an intense match.

Key statistics:

• Alavés’ position: 16th in La Liga
• Athletic’s position: 10th in La Liga
• Points separating Alavés from relegation: 2
• Points separating Athletic from European spots: 3
• Alavés’ home points this season: 24 from 16 matches

The stakes couldn’t be higher. For Quique Sanchez Flores’ Alavés, every point counts as they battle against relegation threats. They have lost only one of their last six matches, showcasing resilience that could play a pivotal role against an Athletic side struggling with consistency under Ernesto Valverde.

The last time these two teams met ended with Alavés clinching a narrow 1-0 victory. That result serves as motivation for both sides — for Alavés to replicate their success and for Athletic to avenge that defeat.

As the match approaches, fans will be eager to see if Alavés can continue their fight for survival or if Athletic can turn their fortunes around. With both teams facing critical junctures in their seasons, this encounter promises to deliver drama and intensity.

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As the Copa del Rey semi-final approaches its decisive second leg, Atlético Madrid finds itself in a commanding position against FC Barcelona, leading 4-0 on aggregate. This match, set to take place on March 3, 2026, at the iconic Spotify Camp Nou in Barcelona, is crucial for both teams, particularly for Barcelona, the defending champions.

In the first leg, Atlético Madrid showcased a dominant performance, leaving FC Barcelona without a goal. The aggregate lead of four goals puts immense pressure on the home side, who must overturn this deficit to keep their hopes of defending their title alive. The stakes are high, as Atlético Madrid seeks to eliminate Barcelona from the tournament for the first time since 2000.

Diego Simeone, the coach of Atlético Madrid, has prepared his team for this critical encounter. With the match scheduled for 9:00 PM local time, fans are eager to see if Barcelona can capitalize on their home advantage, having won all 13 of their matches at Camp Nou since returning to the stadium in November 2025.

The officiating crew for this match includes referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea and VAR official Daniel Jesús Trujillo, ensuring that the match is conducted fairly and with the utmost scrutiny. The match will be broadcast live in Spain on La 1, Movistar+, TV3, and RTVE Play, while viewers in the United States can catch the action on ESPN Select and FuboTV.

Meanwhile, the other semi-final features Real Sociedad, who won their first leg against Athletic Bilbao 1-0. This match is set to kick off at 3 PM ET on March 4, 2026, at Anoeta Stadium. The outcome of these matches will determine which teams advance to the Copa del Rey final, scheduled for April 18, 2026.

As the countdown to the second leg continues, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Atlético Madrid’s significant lead has set the stage for a potentially thrilling match, with FC Barcelona needing to rally and find their scoring touch. The outcome of this semi-final will not only impact the teams involved but also resonate throughout Spanish football, highlighting the fierce rivalry and competitive spirit of the Copa del Rey.

With just 90 minutes remaining before the final, the pressure mounts for both Atlético Madrid and FC Barcelona. The outcome of this match will be pivotal, shaping the narrative of the tournament and determining who will vie for the prestigious Copa del Rey trophy.

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