Deportivo Alavés 2-1 RCD Mallorca: A Crucial Victory in the Fight for La Liga Survival

Deportivo Alavés edged RCD Mallorca 2-1 at the Mendizorrotza Stadium on April 25, 2026, in a match that carried enormous weight in the battle to avoid relegation from La Liga. The Basque side produced a spirited performance to claim three vital points, moving them closer to safety.

Match Overview

In front of a passionate home crowd, Alavés came out with intensity and purpose. They controlled the early stages and were rewarded with an early lead. Mallorca, known for their defensive organization, struggled to contain Alavés’ energetic attack. Despite a late fightback from the visitors, Alavés held on to secure a crucial result.

Key Moments

• Early Lead for Alavés: The home side took the lead in the 14th minute when a swift counter-attack ended with a composed finish past the Mallorca goalkeeper.
• Doubling the Advantage: Alavés doubled their lead before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive error to score from a tight angle, leaving the Mallorca defense in disarray.
• Mallorca’s Response: After a tactical reshuffle at halftime, Mallorca grew into the game and pulled one back in the 67th minute with a powerful header from a corner kick.
• Nervous Finish: Mallorca pushed hard for an equalizer in the closing stages, hitting the crossbar and forcing a brilliant save from the Alavés goalkeeper, but Alavés held firm.

Tactical Story

Alavés deployed a 4-4-1-1 formation that allowed them to press high and disrupt Mallorca’s build-up play. Their wingers tracked back diligently, making it difficult for Mallorca’s full-backs to advance. Mallorca, playing a 4-2-3-1, struggled to find rhythm in the first half but improved after switching to a more direct approach in the second period.

Standout Player

Alavés’ central midfielder was the engine of the team, covering every blade of grass and contributing both defensively and offensively. He won the ball back numerous times and started the move for the second goal. For Mallorca, their substitute striker injected pace and energy, scoring a goal and reigniting his team’s hopes.

Table and Season Impact

This victory lifts Alavés out of the relegation zone, giving them a lifeline in the La Liga survival battle. Mallorca remain in a precarious position, just above the drop zone, and will need to improve their away form in the remaining matches. With the season entering its final stretch, every point is gold in the fight to stay in Spain’s top flight.