Toni Martínez scored twice as Alaves claimed a crucial 2-1 victory over Mallorca at Estadio Mendizorrotza, with the striker's second-half double proving decisive in a tightly contested La Liga clash.
Alaves edged out Mallorca in a competitive encounter on April 25, 2026, that saw the hosts recover from an early setback to secure three vital points. The result keeps Alaves' survival hopes alive as the season enters its final stretch, while Mallorca's defensive vulnerabilities cost them dearly against a determined home side.
Mallorca struck first when Jan Virgili opened the scoring in the 18th minute, giving the visitors an early advantage at the Estadio Mendizorrotza. The goal came against the run of play, with Alaves dominating possession from the opening whistle. However, the hosts remained composed and continued to build their attacking play methodically.
Alaves controlled the first half with 50% possession and created numerous chances. Their attacking intent was clear, with nine corner kicks earned as they pressed Mallorca's defense. The home side's passing accuracy of 85% demonstrated their control, though they struggled to convert their superiority into goals before the interval.
Jonny Otto received a yellow card in the 26th minute for Mallorca as tempers threatened to boil over early. The visitors adopted a defensive approach after taking the lead, inviting Alaves onto them. This tactical setup would prove problematic as the match progressed.
The second half brought immediate drama. Toni Martínez equalized in the 56th minute, leveling the match and shifting momentum decisively toward the hosts. Martínez's clinical finishing showed why he would become the match's standout performer, firing his shots with precision when opportunities arrived.
Just minutes later, Mallorca's defense crumbled again. Martínez struck his second goal in the 69th minute to put Alaves ahead 2-1. The striker's composure in front of goal proved the difference between the sides, as he converted both chances with maximum efficiency.
Manu Valjent picked up a yellow card for Mallorca in the 59th minute as frustration mounted among the visiting players. Alaves' Víctor Parada also received a booking in the 76th minute as the match became increasingly heated in its closing stages.
Statistically, Alaves dominated the encounter. They attempted 15 total shots compared to Mallorca's four, with four of those finding the target versus just two for the visitors. Alaves' expected goals (xG) of 1.09 reflected their superior chances, while Mallorca managed just 0.28 xG. Leo Román made two crucial saves to keep Mallorca in the contest.
Martínez's performance earned him a rating of 9.2, the highest of any player on the pitch. The striker converted both his shots on target, demonstrating the clinical finishing that proved decisive. Virgili's opening goal for Mallorca represented their best chance creation of the afternoon.
The victory moves Alaves to 33 points from 32 matches, though they remain in 18th place in the La Liga standings. Mallorca stays 15th with 35 points, but their defensive frailties against direct opponents remain a concern. Both sides face mounting pressure as the season's climax approaches.
