A cross caused chaos in the Athletic penalty area, with Carles Alena's ricochet helping the ball to Ander Guevara, but Unai Simon blocked his effort from six yards. Athletic, still reeling from their midweek European exit, had yet to register a shot on target when Maroan Sannadi was fouled by Facundo Garcesin after 30 minutes. Although their penalty claims were denied, they gradually gained momentum in the game.

Sannadi missed a chance soon after, but goalkeeper Antonio Sivera made a crucial save to deny Aingeru Olabarrieta's inswinging cross from curling into the bottom corner. Mikel Jauregizar's effort was also punched clear to maintain half-time parity.

The break did nothing to halt Athletic's dominance, as they continued to pressurize the Alaves goal with wave after wave of attacks. The best chances fell to the Athletic centre-backs at corners, with Yeray Alvarez's towering header clipping the post and Dani Vivian's effort drifting wide.

As the match entered its final 20 minutes, Ernesto Valverde's men finally broke through. A fine one-two between Oihan Sancet and Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta set up Gorka Guruzeta inside the area, and although he scuffed his shot, Manu Sanchez inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.

Alaves offered little in response, showing none of the form they had exhibited in their previous eight away games as their relegation fears intensified.

They faced a team that has now gone unbeaten in 15 league games at San Mames, which has helped Athletic establish a seven-point cushion over the chasing pack.