Deportivo Alavés showcased resilience and determination as they earned a vital point in a pulsating 2-2 draw against Osasuna at the El Sadar Stadium. The hosts were left frustrated, missing a golden chance to climb into LaLiga’s top six, while the visitors managed to distance themselves slightly from the relegation zone in a dramatic showdown.
First-Minute Magic Sparks Alavés’ Dream Start
Coming into the match with only one point from their last three games, Alavés knew they needed to rise to the occasion. And rise they did—within just one minute! Carlos Martín delivered a breathtaking cross into the box, meeting Kike García’s diving header that soared into the far-right corner of the net. The Babazorros couldn’t have asked for a better start, putting the home crowd on edge from the outset.
Osasuna, unbeaten at home in their last nine outings (W5, D3, L1), weren’t going down without a fight. Jon Moncayola created their first big chance, threading the ball to Abel Bretones. The Spaniard cut inside brilliantly but fired agonizingly wide of the far post, much to the dismay of Los Rojillos fans.
Budimir Strikes Back After Half-Time
The second half saw Osasuna shift gears, asserting dominance in possession as they hunted for an equalizer. The breakthrough came just under 10 minutes into the half, courtesy of Ante Budimir. The Croatian forward, enjoying a stellar season, notched his 10th goal with a clinical poacher’s finish, nudging Alejandro Catena’s header past Antonio Sivera from close range.
With the crowd roaring, Osasuna completed the turnaround in the 61st minute. A heavily deflected free-kick from Rubén García left Sivera completely wrong-footed, nestling into the bottom-left corner. The hosts’ celebrations were wild, but they would soon be cut short.
Kike García to the Rescue
Alavés, unfazed by Osasuna’s comeback, responded just seven minutes later. Kike García, the hero of the night, latched onto Carlos Vicente’s inviting pass and tapped it in at the far post for his second goal. The equalizer silenced the home crowd and reignited hope for the Babazorros.
Osasuna threw everything forward in search of a winner, with Raúl García testing Sivera late on. However, the Alavés goalkeeper was in inspired form, pulling off a fantastic save to deny the Spaniard and preserve the draw.
What This Means for Both Teams
For Alavés, this hard-earned point lifts them to 15th, now two points clear of the relegation zone. The resilience they displayed could prove pivotal in their survival battle. On the other hand, Osasuna will rue their missed opportunity to climb into the top six. Sitting seventh on goal difference, Los Rojillos remain firmly in contention for European football but will need to bounce back in their next outing.
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A Dramatic Night in LaLiga
The 2-2 draw between Osasuna and Alavés was a perfect example of why LaLiga remains one of the most exciting leagues in the world. With twists, turns, and standout performances, this clash will be remembered as a vital point gained for Alavés and a missed opportunity for Osasuna. Fans will now be eagerly anticipating their next fixtures, with both teams still having much to play for.
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