Deportivo Alavés 1-1 Eibar
International Club Friendly | 19 July 2026

Deportivo Alavés and Eibar played out a closely contested 1-1 draw in their pre-season friendly, with both sides showing promising signs but also areas needing improvement. The Basque derby provided an ideal fitness test for the two Segunda División clubs.

Match Flow

Alavés struck first in the 27th minute through a well-worked set piece. A corner was flicked on at the near post and headed home from close range. Eibar responded well and created several chances before finally finding the equaliser just before the hour mark, when a loose ball in the box was rifled into the roof of the net.

Tactical Battle

The match was a midfield slog, with both teams deploying a compact 4-4-2 shape. Chances were at a premium in the second half as fatigue set in. Alavés enjoyed slightly more possession, while Eibar looked dangerous on the break. Neither goalkeeper was seriously tested after the equaliser.

Key Takeaways

• Set Piece Efficiency: Alavés clearly worked on dead-ball situations – their goal came directly from a rehearsed routine.
• Defensive Solidity: Both backlines looked organised, though Eibar will want to avoid conceding from set pieces.
• Fitness Levels: The pace dropped noticeably in the final 20 minutes, typical of early pre-season.

The draw provides a fair reflection of a balanced contest. Both managers will have plenty of material to work with in training ahead of the upcoming season.