Real Madrid travels to Deportivo Alavés on Sunday, December 14th, facing mounting pressure to secure a win. The match kicks off at 3 p.m. ET (12 p.m. PT) and is being closely watched due to recent underperformance and growing speculation around manager Xabi Alonso’s future.
The Stakes for Real Madrid
Recent results have put Alonso’s position at the Bernabéu in jeopardy. A 2-1 defeat to Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League, coupled with Barcelona’s widening lead in La Liga, means that another loss today could spell the end of his tenure. The club is demanding results, and Alonso knows a win is likely essential to stay on.
Alavés’ Momentum
Deportivo Alavés enters the match with confidence after a 1-0 victory against Real Sociedad, moving them to 11th in the table. Manager Eduardo Coudet will aim to build on this momentum as they host Real Madrid at Estadio Mendizorrotza in Vitoria-Gasteiz. The game starts at 9 p.m. CET (3 p.m. ET, 12 p.m. PT, 8 p.m. GMT, 7 a.m. AEDT Monday).
Where to Watch Live
Fans can stream the match in the US through ESPN Select, which carries live English and Spanish-language broadcasts of La Liga. In the UK, Premier Sports holds exclusive rights, broadcasting live on Premier Sports 1 and its streaming platform, Premier Sports Player. Canadian viewers can access the game on TSN Plus, while Australian fans can watch on beIN Sports 2.
The pressure is mounting on Alonso, and a slip-up against Alavés could prove fatal to his job. The stakes are high, and Real Madrid will need a strong performance to avoid further scrutiny.
The outcome of this match will be critical for both teams, with Real Madrid fighting for stability and Alavés aiming to continue their climb up the La Liga table.
