Alavés: An unforgettable feat in European football
In the collective memory of Spanish football, there are moments that shine with their own light, and one of them is, without a doubt, the unforgettable participation of Deportivo Alavés...
In the collective memory of Spanish football, there are moments that shine with their own light, and one of them is, without a doubt, the unforgettable participation of Deportivo Alavés in the UEFA Cup during the 2000-2001 season. This team, modest but full of spirit, surprised all of Europe with a heroic campaign that culminated in one of the most exciting finals in the history of the tournament.
Under the direction of José Manuel Esnal "Mané" , Alavés began their European journey facing big-name rivals such as Inter Milan and Rayo Vallecano . Against all odds, the team demonstrated their offensive style and resilience against teams that, in theory, were superior. What seemed like a distant dream became a reality on May 16, 2001, when Alavés reached the final in Dortmund to face the mighty Liverpool FC .
An end to the story
The encounter against Liverpool was much more than just a match: it became an epic battle full of emotions, changes of pace and unexpected twists. Deportivo Alavés , who came in as the clear David against the English Goliath, did not let themselves be intimidated at any time. Throughout the 120 minutes, the score changed dramatically, in what became one of the most memorable clashes in European football.
The final result, 5-4 in Liverpool's favour, was decided in extra time thanks to a "golden goal" , a rule that would disappear shortly after that mythical final. However, beyond the scoreline, what will remain engraved in history is the indomitable spirit of Alavés , a team that did not stop fighting for a second, even when the circumstances seemed insurmountable.
The legacy of Deportivo Alavés
That night, Deportivo Alavés not only won the respect of Europe, but also left an indelible mark on football fans. The feat of the "Glorioso" remains alive in the memory of those who witnessed that historic match, not only because of the quality of the game or the intensity of the final, but because it showed that in football, as in life, the unexpected can happen.
A modest club, Deportivo Alavés managed to inscribe its name in the annals of European football, and its heroic campaign in the 2000-2001 UEFA Cup is remembered as one of the greatest achievements by a Spanish team in a continental competition.