Racing Santander 2-1 Deportivo Alavés: Late winner settles tense La Liga contest at El Sardinero

Racing Santander claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alavés in La Liga on 12 September 2026, with a late goal at El Sardinero deciding a match that had been finely balanced for long spells. The win lifts Racing in the early-season standings and adds another notable result to their campaign, while Alavés were left to reflect on a performance that deserved more than a single point.

Match Overview

Racing started brightly in front of their home supporters and took the lead in the 23rd minute. Andrés Martín, lively on the right, cut inside and curled a left-footed shot beyond the Alavés goalkeeper. The visitors responded with sustained possession and equalised in the 54th minute when Luis Rioja found space at the back post and guided the ball home from a low cross.

Alavés looked the more likely side to score next for a period, but Racing defended their penalty area well and grew back into the match. The decisive moment arrived in the 82nd minute when Peque Fernández collected the ball on the edge of the box, shifted it onto his stronger foot and fired a low shot into the corner. Alavés pushed for a late equaliser, but Racing held firm through five minutes of stoppage time.

Key Moments

• 23' – Racing 1-0: Andrés Martín opened the scoring with a curling effort from the right.
• 54' – Alavés 1-1: Luis Rioja converted a well-worked move down the left.
• 82' – Racing 2-1: Peque Fernández scored the winner with a precise low strike.
• 90+3': Alavés came close from a late corner, but Racing cleared the danger.

Tactical Story

Racing set up in a 4-2-3-1 with quick transitions in mind. Their two holding midfielders screened the back four and allowed the attacking trio to break at speed whenever Alavés lost the ball. Alavés, by contrast, used a patient 4-3-3 and tried to dominate possession through central rotations. They succeeded in controlling long passages, but Racing's compact defensive block limited clear chances.

The game turned on Racing's ability to defend crosses and second balls. Alavés delivered numerous balls into the box, especially in the second half, but Racing's centre-backs stood tall. When Racing did win possession, they attacked with purpose, and the introduction of fresh legs in wide areas gave them the energy to find the late winner.

Standout Players

Peque Fernández (Racing Santander) was the match-winner, combining sharp movement with an eye for goal. Andrés Martín also impressed with his direct running and opening goal. For Alavés, Luis Rioja was their most dangerous outlet, scoring the equaliser and repeatedly testing the Racing defence. Their midfield captain, Jon Guridi, kept the visitors ticking with intelligent passing.

Season Impact

Racing Santander move into a more comfortable position in the La Liga table with this result, reinforcing their reputation as a difficult team to beat at El Sardinero. For Deportivo Alavés, the defeat is a frustrating one, especially after a performance that included long spells of control. Both clubs will know that the margins in La Liga are slim, and this three-point swing could matter when the final standings are decided. Racing's next challenge will be to build on the win, while Alavés must regroup quickly to avoid a slide.