Sivera Frustrated as Alavés Stutter to Disappointing Draw Against Oviedo
Goalkeeper Antonio Sivera criticizes Alavés' performance in their 1-1 home draw with relegation rivals Real Oviedo, despite Lucas Boyé's stunning free-kick equalizer.
Alavés kicked off 2026 with more of the same problems that plagued them before the Christmas break, stumbling to a disappointing 1-1 draw against fellow strugglers Real Oviedo at Mendizorroza.
Sivera’s Heroics Keep Scoreline Respectable
The hosts have goalkeeper Antonio Sivera to thank for avoiding complete embarrassment. The Alicante-born shot-stopper was in inspired form, making five crucial saves throughout the match to keep his side in it.
Sivera didn’t mince his words post-match, clearly brassed off with his team’s display: “We cannot accept a draw at home against a direct rival.”
The first half was particularly dire from the home side, with defensive frailties on full display. Oviedo dominated proceedings and only Sivera’s heroics kept the scoreline goalless at the break. The goalkeeper later lamented that the poor performance was “our fault rather than Oviedo’s merit.”
Boyé to the Rescue
Despite a slight improvement after half-time, Alavés fell behind when Fede Viñas broke the deadlock for the visitors. The goal seemed to finally wake up Coudet’s men, who had been in a proper two and eight until that point.
It was Lucas Boyé who came to the rescue with an absolute pearler of a free-kick from 25 meters that left Oviedo keeper Escandell with no chance. The Argentine striker had been struggling with fitness issues heading into the match but proved his worth after coming on as a substitute.
Relegation Worries Continue
The goal was Boyé’s fourth of the season, all scored at Mendizorroza, putting him level with Carlos Vicente as the club’s top scorer. His influence at home is undeniable, offering Coudet tactical flexibility up front while contributing goals.
However, the draw does little to ease Alavés’ relegation concerns. While Sivera and Boyé are showing the way forward with their performances, it’s clear that the team needs more from the rest of the squad if they’re to climb away from the drop zone.
The result continues a worrying trend for Alavés, who had hoped the festive break would provide an opportunity to reset and find their best form after a difficult December. Instead, 2026 has begun with the same concerning issues that have left them fighting for survival.