Deportivo Alavés staged a spirited comeback to defeat Mallorca 2-1, securing a vital victory that lifts them out of La Liga’s relegation zone while piling pressure on their opponents.
Mallorca made the brighter start and capitalized on their efficiency in the first half, taking the lead through a superb strike from Jan Virgili.
Despite showing attacking intent, Alavés struggled to convert their chances, with goalkeeper Leo Román producing a sharp save to deny Nahuel Tenaglia’s acrobatic effort. Though the hosts showed promise, their lack of cutting edge left them trailing at the break.
After the restart, Alavés found a new gear, inspired by Toni Martínez. The forward restored parity with a well-taken header before completing the turnaround with a composed finish from close range, following a neat assist from Ángel Pérez.
Mallorca pressed for a late equalizer, with Virgili among those going close, but Alavés stood firm under pressure to seal all three points.
The result sees them climb out of the drop zone, at least for now, while Mallorca’s position becomes increasingly precarious as they risk slipping into the bottom three depending on other results.