Portugalete vs Alaves Match Recap - Dec 2, 2025

Alaves Dominates Portugalete in Copa del Rey Showdown, Proving Form is Temporary but Class is Permanent

Alaves showcased their class with a decisive 3-0 victory over Portugalete, marking a much-needed resurgence after a string of disappointing performances in La Liga. The win not only advances them in the Copa del Rey but also serves as a confidence booster for a squad that has struggled to find its rhythm lately.

Carlos Vicente emerged as a standout performer, scoring early and setting the tone for Alaves. His goal in the third minute was a testament to his growing influence on the pitch, following a strong showing in their previous Copa del Rey match where he netted twice against Deportivo Getxo. Vicente's ability to find the back of the net consistently has been crucial for Alaves, especially given their recent struggles in league play.

Portugalete entered this match riding high on a wave of momentum, having won three of their last five matches. However, they were unable to translate that confidence into performance against a more experienced Alaves side. Despite their recent successes, Portugalete's lack of firepower was evident as they failed to capitalize on any scoring opportunities, reflecting a stark contrast to their previous outings where they averaged over two goals per game.

Alaves' defensive solidity was on full display, particularly in the face of Portugalete's attempts to break through. The backline, led by Moussa Diarra and Carlos Benavídez, effectively neutralized any threats posed by the home side. This defensive performance is a welcome sight for Alaves, who have struggled with consistency at the back in recent weeks, conceding multiple goals in their last few league matches.

The own goal by Tapiador in the 71st minute further compounded Portugalete's woes, illustrating their inability to cope with the pressure exerted by Alaves. This moment not only sealed the match but also highlighted the psychological toll that comes with facing a team of Alaves' caliber. The own goal was emblematic of Portugalete's night; they simply could not find their footing against a more seasoned opponent.

Toni Martínez capped off the scoring with a late goal in stoppage time, reinforcing his role as a key player for Alaves. His ability to find space and finish under pressure has been crucial for the team, especially as they navigate through a challenging period in La Liga. Martínez's performance today serves as a reminder of his potential to change games when given the opportunity.

Alaves' recent form leading up to this match had been concerning, with only one win in their last five outings. The victory against Portugalete not only provides a much-needed morale boost but also allows them to shift focus back to league play with renewed confidence. The team will need to build on this momentum if they hope to climb out of the relegation zone in La Liga.

Portugalete's recent run of form had raised expectations heading into this match, but they were ultimately outclassed by an Alaves side that demonstrated both skill and tactical awareness. Their inability to convert possession into meaningful chances was evident; despite controlling the ball at times, they managed only a handful of shots on target throughout the match.

The tactical battle between the two teams revealed significant disparities in experience and execution. Alaves' ability to transition quickly from defense to attack proved pivotal, allowing them to exploit gaps left by Portugalete's defense. This tactical superiority was evident throughout the match, as Alaves consistently found ways to penetrate Portugalete's lines.

Looking ahead, Alaves must leverage this victory as a springboard for future success. With key players like Vicente and Martínez finding their form, they have the potential to turn their season around. The challenge will be maintaining this level of performance against tougher opposition in La Liga.

Portugalete, on the other hand, must regroup and reassess their strategy moving forward. While they have shown promise in recent weeks, this defeat serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that come with competing against higher-tier teams. Their focus should shift towards refining their attacking play and ensuring they can convert chances into goals.

This match encapsulated the essence of knockout football: one team's resurgence can often come at the expense of another's aspirations. For Alaves, this victory is not just about advancing in the Copa del Rey; it represents a critical turning point in their season. For Portugalete, it is an opportunity to learn and grow from a tough experience against a formidable opponent.

In summary, Alaves' commanding performance against Portugalete highlights the importance of experience and execution in knockout competitions. With players stepping up when it matters most, Alaves has set themselves up for potential success as they continue their campaign in both domestic and cup competitions.