During the 2000–01 season, Spanish football club Deportivo Alavés was placed 10th in La Liga.

Although they were unable to improve on the previous season's sixth-placed finish, they reached the final of the UEFA Cup for the first time in their history, facing English giants Liverpool.

Alavés fought bravely and finished normal time level with Liverpool 4–4; the game went to extra-time, where Alavés narrowly lost to a golden own goal.

[1] Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.