Athletic Bilbao were held to a goalless draw by Deportivo Alavés at San Mamés on Saturday despite dominating the encounter and creating several opportunities.
The hosts controlled possession and territory for long periods, but Alavés’ well-organised defence frustrated their attacking efforts.
Athletic registered 23 attempts compared with just two from the visitors, while goalkeeper Antonio Sivera produced a series of important saves to keep the game level.
Athletic came closest to breaking the deadlock in the second half when Nico Williams won a penalty.
Oihan Sancet stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Sivera read the attempt and made the save, denying the home side a deserved-looking lead.
The penalty miss did not end Athletic’s pressure, as Edin Terzić’s side continued to push forward in search of a winner.
Iñaki Williams, Robert Navarro and other attacking players threatened the Alavés goal, but Sivera remained equal to the challenge.
Alavés, managed by Quique Sánchez Flores, largely focused on containing Athletic and protecting their goal.
The visitors defended in numbers and struggled to create opportunities of their own, finishing with only two shots during the match.
Athletic’s inability to convert their dominance into goals ultimately cost them two points at home.
Despite having the greater share of possession and chances, they were unable to find a breakthrough before the final whistle.
The result leaves both sides sharing the points after a match in which Alavés’ defensive resilience and Sivera’s penalty save proved decisive.
