Alavés' Cup Joy Comes at a Heavy Price as Key Men Crocked
Deportivo Alavés reach Copa del Rey last-16 with victory over Sevilla, but injuries to Jonny Otto and Lucas Boyé sour the celebrations ahead of Osasuna clash.
Alavés’ Cup Joy Comes at a Heavy Price as Key Men Crocked
The Mendizorroza faithful were in dreamland as Deportivo Alavés booked their ticket to the Copa del Rey last-16, but their victory celebrations may be short-lived with two crucial players now facing spells on the sidelines.
Cup Progress Secured
Alavés managed to see off Sevilla in a proper cup battle, with Carlos Vicente’s penalty proving the difference between the sides. Around 10,000 supporters packed into Mendizorroza and were treated to scenes of jubilation at the final whistle as the players celebrated their progression.
But football has a nasty habit of giving with one hand and taking with the other, doesn’t it?
Injury Crisis Brewing
The victory came at a significant cost with two of Coudet’s most trusted lieutenants forced off with injuries:
- Jonny Otto - The ever-present left-back (who’s started all 16 league matches this season) had to be substituted midway through the first half after feeling a twinge in his left abductor
- Lucas Boyé - Introduced as a 66th-minute substitute, the Argentine striker couldn’t even finish the match, coming off with hamstring troubles before the final whistle
Osasuna Headache
With their final match of 2025 against Osasuna just days away, it’s looking like Coudet will have to get his thinking cap on. Both players are near-certainties to miss the trip to El Sadar, leaving the gaffer with a proper selection nightmare.
Jonny’s absence is particularly problematic given Alavés’ thin defensive options. Coudet might need to get creative - shifting Tenaglia to full-back, dropping Carlos Vicente deeper, or even dipping into the academy for reinforcements.
Up top, Toni Martínez seems the logical replacement for Boyé, especially with Mariano still struggling to find form. The Dominican striker didn’t even make the squad for the cup tie, suggesting he’s currently well down the pecking order.
What should have been a night of pure celebration has turned into a bit of a ‘mare for Alavés. Talk about paying through the nose for cup success!