The 1999-00 campaign delivered an extraordinary, historic season for Deportivo Alavés as Babazorros, in only their second campaign back in the top flight, surged to a spectacular 6th-place finish in La Liga. This remarkable position secured the club's first-ever qualification for the UEFA Cup. The campaign was built on a defensive masterclass, with goalkeeper Martín Herrera winning the prestigious Zamora Trophy for the lowest goals-to-games conceded ratio, and was anchored up front by veteran centre-forward Julio Salinas, whose 8 goals were pivotal in his final professional season. It was a memorable and surprising year of over-achievement that laid the foundation for the club's unforgettable run to the UEFA Cup final the following season.. 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.. The 2001-02 campaign delivered a crucial season of consolidation for Alavés, as the Babazorros secured an impressive 7th-place finish in La Liga under manager Mané. This position unexpectedly earned them a second consecutive ticket to the UEFA Cup, qualifying as the highest-ranked team outside the traditional European places. Leading the line was Magno Mocelin, whose 7 goals were vital for the side in a year that successfully cemented their place in the Spanish top flight immediately following their legendary run to the 2001 UEFA Cup Final.