Alaves Snatch Late Victory Over Espanyol Despite Shooting Woes

In a tightly contested La Liga clash, Alaves managed to come from behind and secure a 2-1 victory over Espanyol. The away side overcame a 1-0 deficit with two second-half goals, despite registering fewer total shots and a lower expected goals (xG) value than their hosts.

Espanyol took the lead midway through the first half through a goal from R. Fernandez Jaen, but Alaves equalized just 12 minutes later with a strike from A. Blanco. The turning point came in the 71st minute when L. Boye scored the winner for Alaves, capitalizing on an assist from T. Martinez.

The tactical reason behind Alaves' victory was their effective counterattacking play. While Espanyol dominated possession (50%) and had more shots on target (3 vs 7), Alaves were clinical in transition, scoring twice from just 6 shots inside the box. This counterattacking approach allowed them to punish Espanyol's defensive lapses and snatch all three points.

Conversely, Espanyol's tactical failure was their inability to break down Alaves' compact defensive shape. Despite enjoying more of the ball, Espanyol managed just 10 shots, with only 3 on target. Their failure to create high-quality chances from open play, as evidenced by an xG of just 0.69, ultimately cost them the match.