VALENCIA, Spain – Hugo Duro delivered a dramatic, stoppage-time penalty to secure a vital 3-2 victory for Valencia over Alavés on Sunday, igniting scenes of jubilation at Mestalla. The win, Valencia’s first come-from-behind victory in three years, moves them seven points clear of the La Liga relegation zone with eleven matches remaining.
Duro, who entered the match as a 74th-minute substitute, calmly converted the spot-kick after being fouled in the penalty area, sending the Valencia faithful into raptures. The goal capped a spirited comeback for Los Che, who had fallen behind twice to Lucas Boyé’s goals for Alavés.
Whereas the victory was a collective effort, the performance sparked conversation surrounding the team’s striking options, particularly the dynamic between Duro and fellow forward Umar Sadiq. Duro, known affectionately as ‘the killer’ by Valencia supporters when his name is announced, currently leads the team with eight La Liga goals this season. However, his recent appearances have been limited to a substitute role, with Sadiq starting in the previous three league matches.
In a post-match interview, Duro playfully acknowledged Sadiq’s impact, stating, “If I’ve lost my place in the starting eleven, it’s because Sadiq seems like Pelé.” The comment, delivered with a smile, highlights the healthy competition within the Valencia squad and Duro’s respect for his teammate’s form. Sadiq has quickly become an integral part of the attack, contributing both with and without the ball, according to Duro.
“I’m calm,” Duro continued. “I work hard every day to do what the manager asks of me. It’s just that Sadiq is playing very well, and when he performs like that, he deserves to play.”
The forward’s comments come as Valencia manager Rubén Baraja navigates a crucial period in the season. The team’s recent form has been inconsistent, and securing La Liga status remains the primary objective. Duro’s ability to provide a spark off the bench, as demonstrated against Alavés, will be vital in the remaining matches.
Beyond the on-field performance, Duro’s connection with the Valencia supporters is undeniable. His commitment to the club and his passionate displays have earned him the unwavering support of the Valencianistas. During Sunday’s match, a section of the Mestalla crowd reportedly called for the resignation of sporting director Miguel Corberán, but Duro quickly reaffirmed his support for the manager, Baraja.
“The fans are free to say what they want,” Duro stated. “I just want to tell them that when they support and cheer as they always do, it makes things much easier. But when they want to say something, we obviously respect that.”
The victory over Alavés represents a significant boost for Valencia, both in terms of league position and morale. The team now faces a challenging run of fixtures, but with Duro and Sadiq leading the attack, and the unwavering support of the Mestalla faithful, they will be hoping to continue their climb up the La Liga table.
The match also marked the debut of Quique Sánchez Flores as Alavés manager, a debut spoiled by Duro’s late heroics. Alavés had taken the lead twice through Lucas Boyé, converting a penalty in the third minute after a foul and then again later in the match. However, Valencia responded with goals from Javi Guerra and Cömert before Duro’s decisive penalty.
Valencia’s starting lineup included Dimitrievski in goal, a back four of Thierry, Núñez, Cömert, and Gayà, a midfield trio of Rioja, Guido, and Guerra, and an attacking line of Ramazani, Ugrinic, and Sadiq. Baraja made tactical substitutions throughout the match, bringing on Danjuma, Almeida, Diego López, and the match-winner, Hugo Duro.
The win provides a much-needed lift for Valencia as they continue their fight to avoid relegation. The team’s next challenge will be a trip to [Next Opponent – information not available in sources], where they will look to build on the momentum generated by this dramatic victory at Mestalla.
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