La Liga 2025/26 — Jornada 3 Tactical Preview & Predictions

By OffsideOpinions | August 29, 2025

La Liga’s third matchday arrives with tension already simmering across Spain. Real Madrid look unstoppable, Barcelona face a classic banana skin at Vallecas, and Atlético are in urgent need of rhythm. Here’s your full tactical breakdown and predictions for Jornada 3.

🗓 Friday, August 29

Elche vs Levante (19:30 CEST)

A derby with bite. Elche’s 4-4-2 relies on compact midfield lines and quick transitions, while Levante’s 4-2-3-1 has struggled to link midfield to attack. Expect Elche to press high early and exploit Levante’s slow buildup.

🔮 Prediction: Elche 1–0 Levante

Valencia vs Getafe (21:30 CEST)

Valencia’s 4-3-3 under Rubén Baraja is built on verticality and wing overloads, especially down the left with Jesús Vázquez. Getafe’s low block and 5-3-2 shape will frustrate, but Valencia’s midfield trio should eventually find a breakthrough.

🔮 Prediction: Valencia 1–0 Getafe

🗓 Saturday, August 30

Alavés vs Atlético Madrid (17:00 CEST)

Atlético’s 3-5-2 has lacked fluency, with midfield injuries forcing tactical reshuffles. Expect Simeone to lean on set pieces and second balls. Alavés will sit deep in a 4-1-4-1 and look to counter through Samu Omorodion.

🔮 Prediction: Alavés 1–2 Atlético Madrid

Real Oviedo vs Real Sociedad (19:00 CEST)

Oviedo’s return to La Liga has been spirited, but Sociedad’s 4-3-3 is one of the most fluid in Spain. Watch for Mikel Merino’s late runs and Takefusa Kubo’s dribbling to unlock Oviedo’s rigid 4-4-2.

🔮 Prediction: Real Oviedo 1–2 Real Sociedad

Girona vs Sevilla (19:30 CEST, DAZN Free-to-Air)

Girona’s 3-4-2-1 is dynamic, with Aleix García dictating tempo and Tsygankov offering width. Sevilla’s 4-2-3-1 lacks verticality, and their fullbacks are vulnerable to overloads. Girona’s pressing could be decisive.

🔮 Prediction: Girona 1–0 Sevilla

Real Madrid vs Mallorca (21:30 CEST)

Madrid’s 4-3-1-2 with Mbappé and Vinícius up top is terrifying. Jude Bellingham’s role as a roaming 10 has added unpredictability. Mallorca’s 5-4-1 will be pinned back, and they’ll struggle to contain Madrid’s pace and movement.

🔮 Prediction: Real Madrid 3–0 Mallorca

🗓 Sunday, August 31

Celta Vigo vs Villarreal (17:00 CEST)

Celta’s 4-2-3-1 is built around possession and width, but Villarreal’s 4-3-3 is more refined, with Parejo orchestrating from deep. Expect a midfield chess match with few clear chances.

🔮 Prediction: Celta 1–1 Villarreal

Real Betis vs Athletic Club (19:00 CEST)

Betis’ 4-2-3-1 is slick, with Isco pulling strings between the lines. Athletic’s 4-4-2 presses aggressively, and Nico Williams’ pace could trouble Betis’ high line. A draw feels fair.

🔮 Prediction: Real Betis 1–1 Athletic Club

Espanyol vs Osasuna (19:30 CEST)

Espanyol’s cautious 4-1-4-1 will try to stifle Osasuna’s direct 4-4-2. Expect a physical midfield battle with few chances.

🔮 Prediction: Espanyol 0–0 Osasuna

Rayo Vallecano vs Barcelona (21:30 CEST)

Rayo’s 4-2-3-1 presses high and aggressively at home. Barça’s 4-3-3 will need composure in buildup, especially with Pedri and Gavi orchestrating. Expect Raphinha to stretch the lines and Lewandowski to find space late.

🔮 Prediction: Rayo Vallecano 1–2 Barcelona

📊 Jornada 3 Predictions Recap

⚽ Tactical Takeaway

Madrid’s fluid front three looks unstoppable, Barça’s midfield control should edge them past Rayo, and Girona’s pressing game could expose Sevilla’s structural flaws. Atlético? Still a work in progress, but Simeone’s pragmatism might just deliver.