Athletic Bilbao continued their impressive run of form, defeating defending champions Real Madrid 2-1 at San Mamés. Substitute Gorka Guruzeta delivered the decisive strike, capping off a pulsating encounter that showcased drama, controversy, and defensive resilience. The victory extends Bilbao’s unbeaten streak across all competitions to 10 matches (W7, D3) and solidifies their position in LaLiga’s top four.
First Half: Frustration and Controversy
Athletic came out firing, with Nico Williams forcing an early save from Thibaut Courtois in the fourth minute. However, the match’s most contentious moment unfolded soon after. Referee Jose Maria Sanchez Martínez waved off Real Madrid’s appeals for a penalty on Rodrygo and ruled out Kylian Mbappé’s would-be opener for offside, leaving the visitors fuming.
The Basque side nearly capitalized on the reprieve, but Alex Berenguer squandered a golden opportunity, skying an effort set up by Iñaki Williams’ backheel. Despite their dominance, Athletic went into halftime without a goal to show for their efforts.
Second Half: Drama Unfolds
The breakthrough came just eight minutes into the second half when Berenguer redeemed himself by converting Nico Williams’ pinpoint cross, giving Athletic a 1-0 lead.
Real Madrid had a chance to equalize in the 68th minute after Julen Agirrezabala fouled Antonio Rüdiger in the box. Agirrezabala, deputizing in goal for Athletic, became the hero moments later, diving correctly to deny Mbappé from the spot—a second consecutive penalty miss for the Frenchman.
Madrid briefly thought they had leveled the score when Jude Bellingham pounced on a rebound following a spilled save by Agirrezabala. However, Federico Valverde’s misplaced pass in midfield proved costly. Athletic seized the opportunity, with Guruzeta latching onto the ball and firing a sublime finish to restore the hosts’ lead and seal the victory.
Match Stats:
| Statistic | Athletic Bilbao | Real Madrid |
|---|---|---|
| Shots (on target) | 12 (5) | 10 (4) |
| Possession | 47% | 53% |
| Pass Accuracy | 84% | 87% |
| Saves | 3 | 2 |
Key Performers:
- Athletic Bilbao:
- Nico Williams: Assist and relentless wing play
- Julen Agirrezabala: Penalty save and crucial interventions
- Gorka Guruzeta: Match-winning goal
- Real Madrid:
- Thibaut Courtois: Key saves to keep Madrid in the game
- Jude Bellingham: Scored, albeit in vain
Implications:
The win marks Ernesto Valverde’s first LaLiga triumph over Real Madrid since his return to Athletic Bilbao. It also underscores the Basque side’s resurgence, with the team now firmly entrenched in the top-four conversation. For Real Madrid, the loss is a blow to their title aspirations and a wake-up call as they look to rebound in the coming fixtures.
San Mamés celebrated in style, as the Lions proved they are a force to be reckoned with this season.
