In a dramatic encounter at Estadio Mendizorrotza, Alavés emerged victorious against Betis, securing a 2-1 win on January 21, 2023. The match kicked off with an explosive start as Carlos Vicente found the net just 2 minutes into the game, setting the tone for the Babazorros. In the second half, Toni Martínez extended Alavés’ lead with a well-placed header at the 46th minute. Betis managed to pull one back through Abde Ezzalzouli in the 49th minute, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Abde Ezzalzouli was the standout performer for Betis, scoring a goal, completing 35 successful passes, and attempting six shots on goal. His efforts were significant, even though his team fell short.
Pablo Ibáñez was a crucial player for Alavés; he contributed 31 accurate passes, made three interceptions, and took three shots on target, demonstrating his all-around impact on the game.
Alavés deployed a 4-4-2 formation under the guidance of coach Eduardo Coudet, with Antonio Sivera guarding the goal, flanked by Nahuel Tenaglia, Carlos Benavídez, Jon Pacheco, and Jonny Otto in defense. The midfield consisted of Carlos Vicente, Antonio Blanco, Pablo Ibáñez, and Carles Aleñá, while Lucas Boyé and Toni Martínez led the attack.
Meanwhile, Betis, managed by Manuel Pellegrini, opted for a 4-5-1 setup, featuring Pau López in goal, with Ángel Ortiz, Marc Bartra, Natan, and Valentín Gómez in defense. The midfield trio comprised Sergi Altimira, Marc Roca, Antony, Pablo Fornals, and Abde Ezzalzouli, with Cédric Bakambu spearheading the offense.
The match was officiated by referee Miguel Ortiz Arias.
Looking ahead, Alavés will head to face Espanyol in their next outing, while Betis will welcome Valencia to the Benito Villamarín Stadium. Currently, Alavés ranks 15th with 22 points, while Betis sits 6th with 32 points in the league standings.
Substitutions for Alavés
71’ 2H – Toni Martínez substituted for Jon Guridi
82’ 2H – Carlos Vicente substituted for Ander Guevara
91’ 2H – Carles Aleñá and Pablo Ibáñez substituted for Youssef Enriquez and Abde Rebbach respectively.
Yellow Cards for Alavés:
20’ 2H – Carles Aleñá (Foul to prevent an opponent from advancing)
Substitutions for Betis
59’ 2H – Antony substituted for Pablo Garcia, Sergi Altimira for Chimy Ávila, and Natan for Diego Llorente
75’ 2H – Pablo Fornals substituted for Nelson Deossa and Cédric Bakambu for Iván Corralejo.
Yellow Cards for Betis:
35’ 1H – Natan (Unsporting behavior)