Alavés secured a 1‑1 draw against CD Ebro in the sixth round of the Segunda RFEF, leaving them ninth with 12 points and five points off the playoff line. A win over Girona on Monday could lift them to 15 points, matching their rivals and reviving their promotion push.
Match Recap: Alavés vs Ebro Ends 1‑1
At Mendizorroza, Alavés opened the scoring when centre‑back Javier Sanchez headed in the 23rd minute from a set‑piece. Luis García answered ten minutes later with a low‑driven finish, restoring parity. Despite dominating possession at 58 %, Alavés could not break the compact Ebro defence, and a late save by goalkeeper Álvaro Pérez preserved the draw.
Key Statistics
- Alavés points: 12 from 6 matches
- League position: 9th (five points behind playoff zone)
- Possession: 58 %
- Shots on target: Alavés higher volume but lower conversion
Upcoming Challenge: Girona Showdown
Alavés will host Girona on Monday at 17:00 h (Brasília time). Girona sit eighth with 15 points, three ahead of Alavés. A victory would lift Alavés to 15 points, equalising the gap and opening a pathway into the top‑six, while a defeat would widen the gap to six points, leaving Alavés on the back foot for the remainder of the campaign.
Form Comparison
- Girona: won 3 of last 5, goal‑difference +4
- Alavés: inconsistent – win vs Atlético B, loss to Real Sociedad, draw with Ebro
Strategic Implications for the Promotion Race
Alavés’ ambition to return to La Liga hinges on converting possession dominance into clear‑cutting chances. The draw highlights a recurring challenge: turning high ball retention into goals. Coach José Luis Mendilibar emphasized the need for sharper transition play and better third‑minute execution ahead of the Girona match.
Coach’s Outlook
“We left Mendizorroza with a point that reflects the balance of the game. Girona is a quality side; they will press us, and we need to be sharper in transition. Our training this week has focused on quick ball recovery and exploiting the flanks.”
What Lies Ahead
Alavés must sharpen their attacking edge while maintaining defensive composure. The upcoming clash with Girona will test their ability to press high, sustain pressure, and convert chances. A win could reignite their playoff hopes; a loss may cement a mid‑table plateau. Fans are ready, the squad is prepared, and the stage is set for a decisive encounter.
