The 2000-01 campaign delivered one of the most legendary seasons in Alavés's history as the Babazorros finished 10th in La Liga while embarking on an unbelievable run in their debut European campaign. They reached the UEFA Cup Final, a chaotic and glorious spectacle where they narrowly lost 5-4 in extra time to Liverpool via a golden own goal after a sensational 4-4 draw. Spearheading this fairy-tale journey was prolific striker Javi Moreno, whose 22 goals in La Liga proved vital alongside his 6 goals in Europe, in a season built on giant-killing and unforgettable attacking flair. It was a golden year that marked the club's arrival on the European stage and remains one of the greatest finals in tournament history.