Deportivo Alaves fans have written an open letter to a section of Club Atletico Osasuna's supporters who remain upset about the 1-1 draw between the two teams in the 2025 season. The letter, published by the outlet Norte Expres this week, flatly rejects any suggestion that the Vitoria-based team 'let them win' in a match that ultimately cost the Pamplona side qualification for European competitions.
The Navarrese team faces this historical context with a very positive current situation in LaLiga. Osasuna sits in sixth place with seven points, from two wins and a draw in their first three games. Their next test is precisely a trip to Mendizorroza to face Alaves, fifth in the table, on September 6, 2026. The Navarrese team arrives with a record of three goals scored and only one conceded.
What does the letter from Alaves fans say?
The letter starts from the basis of understanding the frustration in Pamplona but draws a clear line on sporting ethics. An unidentified representative of the Alaves supporters stated: "En Mendizorroza jamás hemos entendido la idea de 'dejarse ganar'." The text argues that competing with respect means always playing with maximum intensity, regardless of the opponent or what is at stake. The letter praises Osasuna's traditional values, recalling that it is a big club that does not need favors to succeed.
It insists that Alaves's identity has never included giving away points. The Norte Expres publication notes that the idea that another team should 'give' a result is contrary to the true values that, according to the letter, define Osasuna. These values are based on honesty, effort, struggle, and humility, supported by a passionate fanbase.
How did that draw affect Osasuna's season?
The match in question, a 1-1 draw between Osasuna and Alaves in 2025, had direct consequences. The point earned by the Vitoria team at home mathematically prevented the reds from achieving qualification for European tournaments. It was a hard blow for the Navarrese club's aspirations at the end of that campaign. The letter acknowledges this regret but emphasizes that the path to success should never involve compromising sportsmanship.
The writing encourages Osasuna fans to look forward, highlighting the resilience and competitive spirit that have always characterized the team. This call to the future makes special sense seeing the current standings, where Osasuna is just two points behind the leader, Barcelona.
What is the current state of the Navarrese team?
Osasuna approaches the imminent clash in Vitoria with some important absences in their squad. According to the latest medical report, Aimar Oroz, Jorge Herrando, and Valentin Rosier will be unavailable. Their absence presents a tactical challenge for the coaching staff, who will have to reorganize the team to maintain the good initial run, reflected in a recent form of win, win, and draw.
The squad has the resources to compensate for these losses, as shown by the solid league start. Fans can check the full status of the squad and injuries on our dedicated pages. The objective will be to maintain defensive solidity, key to the +2 goal difference, and seek three points in a scenario loaded with symbolism.
Saturday's match at Mendizorroza will undoubtedly rekindle memories of 2025, but with the focus on the fight for the high places in the table in 2026. The Pamplona team travels to Vitoria to play their fourth match of the season on September 6.
