The 2000 Copa del Rey final, held at the La Cartuja stadium in Seville, is remembered as one of the most thrilling moments in Deportivo Alavés's history. Under the management of coach Mané, the team reached this stage after a journey filled with surprises and hard work, defying expectations and showcasing their courage in every match. Their opponent, Real Madrid, was a giant in Spanish and European football, making the feat of reaching the final even more remarkable.

The match, which took place on June 24, 2000, was a spectacle full of emotion and tension. Although Alavés started off behind, they refused to give in and equalized the score thanks to a goal from their star forward, Javi Moreno. The babazorra fans, who traveled to Seville in droves, experienced moments of pure euphoria. However, the story of the match didn’t end there. In a dramatic conclusion, Alavés found themselves trailing again but managed to level the score once more. The match was decided in extra time, where fate dealt a bitter blow to the Alavés team, as an own goal by defender Iván Alonso sealed the victory for Real Madrid.

Despite the defeat, the 2000 final became a symbol of what Alavés could achieve. The fans, although disappointed, were proud of what their team had accomplished. This match not only reinforced the club's identity but also left a lasting mark on the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz. The players who participated in that match became local legends, and the memories of that epic day continue to endure.

The impact of this final on the culture of Alavés was significant. The fans began to identify more intensely with the team, and passion for the club grew exponentially. The dream of lifting a major trophy was alive more than ever, and although the road to glory was filled with ups and downs, that final served as a reminder that Alavés has a special place in Spanish football. The club's story didn’t end there; in the years that followed, they continued to fight in the league and in national and international competitions, always hoping to repeat the success of 2000.

In hindsight, the 2000 Copa del Rey final was not just a match but an event that united the Alavés community. The babazorros demonstrated that while victory is not always guaranteed, effort and determination are what truly define a team. Today, as Alavés fans look back on their history, they know that this final was a turning point that continues to inspire future players and supporters to carry the club's colors with pride.