Deportivo Alavés: The Fierce Pride and Spirit of El Glorioso

Established in 1921, Deportivo Alavés is a true beacon of grit, resilience, and local pride based in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Basque Country. Affectionately known as El Glorioso (The Glorious One) or Los Babazorros, the blue-and-white striped club has spent over a century punching above its weight, carving out a respected reputation in La Liga through defensive solidity and quick counter-attacking transitions.

Mendizorrotza Stadium: A Fortress of Basque Football

The team plays its home matches at the historic Mendizorrotza Stadium, which boasts the distinction of being one of the oldest active stadiums in professional Spanish football. Known for its passionate and incredibly loud fanbase, Mendizorrotza turns into a daunting fortress on matchdays. The supporters’ unwavering loyalty remains the driving force behind Alavés’ consistent competitive standard in the top flight.

The Legendary 2001 UEFA Cup Final

On the international stage, Deportivo Alavés is universally remembered for its fairytale continental run. In 2001, the club reached the UEFA Cup Final to face Liverpool in Dortmund. The match ended in a breathtaking 5-4 victory for the English giants via an extra-time golden goal, but Alavés won the hearts of football fans worldwide for their fearless, relentless performance. This legendary final, along with their 2017 Copa del Rey Final appearance, cements their legacy as giant-killers.