Deportivo Alavés pulled themselves out of the relegation zone with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Real Sociedad, delivering a significant blow to the visitors’ European ambitions. In front of a passionate home crowd at Mendizorrotza Stadium, the hosts not only secured three precious points but also completed a historic season double over their Basque rivals for the first time since 2001/02.
A Forgettable First Half
Despite the stakes, the opening 45 minutes offered little to shout about. Real Sociedad, who came into the game on the back of two disappointing outings, started cautiously. Though they showed more initiative than Alavés, their attacking efforts lacked sharpness. A glancing header from Brais Méndez drifted wide, and a deflected Sergio Gómez shot was the only real threat, calmly dealt with by Alavés goalkeeper Antonio Sivera.
For the fans in attendance, it was a dull half with no shots on target from either side—a tactical deadlock that left everyone wanting more.
Tenaglia Turns the Tide
The second half told a different story. Alavés emerged from the tunnel with renewed urgency and quickly began pressing higher up the pitch. After narrowly missing with a header from a set-piece, Nahuel Tenaglia produced a moment of brilliance that changed the game. Lurking in the box during a corner, he struck a stunning volley on the turn that rocketed past the goalkeeper—his first goal since September and arguably his most important yet.
Alavés Don’t Sit Back
Unlike many teams that take a defensive stance after scoring, Alavés stayed on the front foot. Antonio Blanco nearly doubled the lead with a rocket from distance that grazed the crossbar, showing the hosts’ intent to kill the game off. Their energy and belief never wavered as they hunted down a second goal that ultimately wasn’t needed.
The result not only ended their three-match winless run at home against Sociedad but also gave them a rare lifeline in their battle for top-flight survival.
Sociedad’s Slump Continues
For Real Sociedad, it was a night of frustration and fading hopes. Imanol Alguacil’s side have now gone three games without a win and remains defensively fragile, having kept just one clean sheet in their last 17 games across all competitions. Their dream of a sixth consecutive top-six LaLiga finish is now under serious threat, especially after falling to a team that had only won once in their last nine home matches.
What This Means for LaLiga
Alavés’ win reshapes the lower end of the LaLiga table and reminds fans that the relegation battle is far from over. Every point counts now, and with only a handful of fixtures left, this result could prove pivotal. Meanwhile, Sociedad must regroup quickly if they want to salvage a European spot.
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Final Word
Deportivo Alavés’ grit and resilience gave them a well-deserved win and a fighting chance in their relegation fight. For Real Sociedad, the pressure is now on as the race for European football intensifies. As we approach the business end of the LaLiga season, expect more twists, more tension, and more chances to win big, especially with Bangbet in your corner.
