When Atlético Madrid rolls into Mendizorroza on Saturday, August 30 (11:00 AM ET), they’ll face an Alavés side riding a wave of momentum that could make this the most intriguing upset bid of LaLiga’s opening weekend. The newly promoted hosts—boasting a WDWWL form line that includes just one loss in their last five—have turned their modest stadium into a fortress, and Diego Simeone’s men will need to weather an early storm. Atlético’s own LWWLW streak hints at their trademark resilience, but with Alavés’ confidence soaring, this clash pits LaLiga’s battle-hardened giants against its hungriest underdogs.

The storyline writes itself: can Alavés’ high-pressing, high-reward style fluster an Atlético side still finding its rhythm? Simeone’s defensive masterclass will be tested by a home team that’s made a habit of punishing hesitant opponents. With both squads entering the 2025-26 campaign eager to prove a point—one fighting to reclaim elite status, the other determined to stay there—this isn’t just a season opener. It’s a statement game. And in a league where every point is a war, Saturday’s winner will send an early message: they’re not here to play nice.