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

Deportivo Alavés and Eibar played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in a Basque derby pre-season friendly on July 19, 2026, at Alavés's training complex in Vitoria-Gasteiz. The match provided both La Liga and Segunda División sides with a competitive workout, with each team enjoying spells of dominance.

First Half – Eibar Strike First

Eibar, playing in the second tier, started the better side and took a deserved lead in the 18th minute. A quick transition caught Alavés out of shape, and winger José Corpas drove into the box before cutting the ball back for striker Juan Carlos Arana, who swept a first-time shot past Alavés goalkeeper Antonio Sivera. Alavés struggled to impose themselves in the opening half-hour, with Eibar's aggressive pressing stifling their build-up play.

As the half progressed, Alavés began to settle. Midfielder Jon Guridi had a header saved, and winger Luis Rioja stung the palms of the Eibar goalkeeper with a fierce drive from distance. Despite the pressure, the score remained 1-0 at the break.

Second Half – Alavés Equalise

Alavés came out with renewed purpose after the restart. Manager Luis García Plaza made several substitutions, injecting fresh energy into the team. The equaliser arrived in the 63rd minute through a well-worked set piece. A short corner was played to Rioja, who clipped a cross to the far post, where centre-back Aleksandar Sedlar rose highest to head powerfully into the net.

Both sides had chances to win it in the final quarter of an hour. Alavés substitute Miguel de la Fuente saw a low drive saved by the Eibar keeper, while at the other end, Eibar's Quique González fired wide after a swift counter. The match ended with honours even, a fair reflection of the balance of play.

Standout Players

• Aleksandar Sedlar – Scored the equalising goal and was solid defensively throughout.
• Luis Rioja – Provided the assist and was Alavés's most creative outlet from the left wing.
• José Corpas – Caused Alavés problems in the first half with his direct running and assist for the goal.

What It Means

This draw gives both managers plenty of observations ahead of the new season. Alavés, preparing for a La Liga campaign, showed resilience to come from behind against a well-organised Eibar side. Eibar, aiming for promotion from Segunda, will be encouraged by their first-half display but will want to convert more of their chances. The friendly reinforced the competitive nature of Basque football, even in pre-season.

Both teams face more friendlies in the coming week as they refine their systems before competitive action begins.