Six-Goal Thriller: Real Sociedad and Alaves Share Dramatic Draw
Title hopefuls drop points in chaotic encounter at Reale Arena
Real Sociedad's La Liga title charge hit a major bump on Saturday afternoon as they surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 3-3 with relegation-battling Alaves at the Reale Arena. The result leaves the hosts second in the table but with dropped points that could prove costly in the title race.
The match exploded into life early when Duje Caleta-Car's unfortunate own goal gifted Real Sociedad the lead just three minutes in. Luka Sučić doubled the advantage on 14 minutes with a well-taken strike, and the home fans were dreaming of a comfortable afternoon.
However, Alaves showed exactly why they've been fighting so hard to stay up this season. Ibrahim Diabaté pulled one back on 24 minutes, and just three minutes later, Antonio Sivera's own goal leveled things at 2-2 in what was becoming a chaotic first half.
Real Sociedad restored their lead through Orri Steinn Óskarsson on 60 minutes, and it looked like Imanol Alguacil's men might finally get control of this wild encounter. But the drama was far from over.
The closing stages descended into madness. Sergio Gómez saw red for Real Sociedad in the 90th minute, and with the home side down to ten men, Lucas Boyé struck the equalizer deep into stoppage time to send the traveling Alaves fans into raptures.
Tactically, Real Sociedad dominated possession with 54% of the ball and created more chances, registering 12 shots to Alaves' 12, but their clinical edge deserted them when it mattered most. The hosts' passing accuracy of 83% showed their technical superiority, yet defensive lapses and ill-discipline cost them dearly.
Carlos Soler led the SAM ratings with an outstanding 8.1 performance, orchestrating play from midfield with typical composure. Takefusa Kubo (7.0) provided an assist despite picking up a yellow card, while Sučić (7.0) capped his goal with solid defensive work including three tackles. Ander Barrenetxea (6.8) made an immediate impact off the bench with an assist.
For struggling Alaves, this point could prove precious in their relegation fight. They showed tremendous character to come back twice, with Boyé's late equalizer epitomizing their never-say-die attitude that has kept them in with a fighting chance of survival.
This result leaves Real Sociedad still in second place with 70 points from 31 games, but they'll rue the opportunity to close the gap on the leaders. Meanwhile, Alaves remain in 17th with 33 points, but this spirited performance against title contenders could be the catalyst for their survival bid.