LALIGA STRUGGLERS ALAVES SNATCH LAST-GASP POINT IN SIX-GOAL THRILLER WITH SOCIEDAD
In a gripping encounter on the pitch, Deportivo Alaves fought valiantly to secure a crucial point in their quest for LaLiga survival, drawing 3-3 with Real Sociedad. This thrilling match, marked by dramatic twists, showcased Alaves’ resilience as they extended their unbeaten streak to four matches, comprising one win and three draws.
Entering the match with a narrow three-point margin above the relegation zone, Alaves got off to a spectacular start against their Basque rivals. Abderrahman Rebbach delivered a low cross into the box that seemed easy enough for Duje Caleta-Car to clear. However, the Croatian centre-back, in an unfortunate mishap, redirected the ball into his own net, granting the visitors an early lead just three minutes in.
Despite this setback, Sociedad quickly sought retribution. Their efforts bore fruit in the 14th minute when Luka Sucic found the bottom corner with a stunning strike from 25 yards out, bringing the score level.
The match proceeded in a frenetic fashion, with each team trading goals in a span of just three minutes during the first half. Ibrahim Diabate capitalized on a loose ball for Alaves to score, before Benat Turrientes of La Real unleashed a spectacular long-range attempt that struck the post and ricocheted off the back of goalkeeper Antonio Sivera, restoring parity once again.
As the first half drew to a close, Sociedad pressed higher in search of a lead, nearly succeeding when Ander Barrenetxea’s promising shot was thwarted by Alaves’ defense.
Knowledgeable about their recent success against Sociedad in previous encounters, Alaves began the second half with renewed vigor, maintaining a strong presence in the attacking third. However, it was Sociedad who claimed the lead on the hour mark, with Takefusa Kubo delivering a pinpoint cross that was expertly converted by Orri Oskarsson. This goal marked the Icelandic striker’s sixth of the season.
While Alaves pushed for an equalizer in the waning minutes, they faced obstacles as Lucas Boye missed two successive close-range opportunities. Alaves’ frustration mounted when Toni Martinez squandered a brilliant chance late in the match. The situation took a turn for the worse for Sociedad when Sergio Gomez was dismissed, reducing his team to ten men following a reckless challenge.
Seizing the opportunity presented by their numerical advantage, Alaves surged forward in search of a last-minute goal. Their persistence paid off in the seventh minute of stoppage time when Lucas Boye struck a magnificent shot into the bottom corner past goalkeeper Alex Remiro, sealing an exhilarating comeback draw for the visitors.
Flashscore Man of the Match was awarded to Carlos Soler of Real Sociedad, whose contributions were crucial throughout the encounter.