Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
VIGO, Spain (AP) — Alaves continued its sensational start to the season by winning 1-0 at Celta Vigo on Friday to go top of Spanish league.
A modest club from Spain's northern Basque Country, Alaves secured another notable victory following a 1-0 win over Champions League winners Real Madrid.
True to the formula installed by coach Abelardo Fernandez, Alaves defended superbly and executed a set piece to perfection in the 58th minute when Victor Laguardia squared a long ball for unmarked midfielder Tomas Pina to tap home.
"These three points are golden," said goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco, who made two key saves to ensure the victory. "We have to keep our feet on the ground."
Alaves is one point above Sevilla, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid two points behind. Those three teams play on Saturday, with Barcelona at home to Sevilla.
Some of Celta's fans jeered the team after its first loss at home in the league since Dec. 2017.
Following a promising start under new coach Antonio Mohamed, Celta hasn't won in six straight games and sits 10th.
___
More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/tag/apf-Soccer and https://twitter.com/AP\_Sports
Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Most recent National Sports stories
Related topics
More stories you may be interested in

Howden's short-handed goal gives Golden Knights 5-4 double-OT win over Mammoth and 3-2 series lead

Schroder, Mobley rally Cavaliers in 4th quarter for 125-120 win over Raptors to take 3-2 series lead

Potapova tops Pliskova in Madrid to become 1st 'lucky loser' in semifinals at a WTA 1000-level event



