Alaves clinched a crucial success in the race to avoid relegation by defeating FC Barcelona (1-0) on Wednesday at Mendizorroza, during the 36th round of La Liga.
Already crowned champions, Barcelona bid farewell to their goal of reaching 100 points. In an electric atmosphere, Alaves secured a fine victory. Despite dominating possession, Hansi Flick’s men lacked cutting edge. Rashford posed the biggest threat for the Blaugrana, with two clear chances at the back post, but failed to hit the target. On the other hand, Alaves capitalized on their moments of strength. Rebbach nearly scored the opener, while Tenaglia also tested Szczesny. Just before halftime, Mendizorroza erupted. From a poorly cleared corner, Ibrahim Diabate volleyed home to give the Basques the lead (45th+1).
Alaves climbs out of the relegation zone
After the break, Barcelona tried to react, bringing on Pedri, Ferran Torres, and Cancelo, but failed to truly destabilize the opposing block. The Blaugrana finished the match without a single shot on target, emblematic of a very poor offensive display. Alaves even could have doubled their lead, especially through Guridi, whose strike hit the post. Rock-solid until the end, Enrique Sanchez Flores’ team withstood the late Catalan pressure to retain a valuable victory. With this win, Alaves temporarily exits the relegation zone and reaches 40 points.
