Williams Brothers Fire Athletic Bilbao into Copa del Rey Semi-finals

Spain - Ekhbary News Agency

Williams Brothers Spearhead Athletic Bilbao's Dramatic Copa del Rey Semi-final Berth

Valencia, Spain - Athletic Bilbao has punched their ticket to the Copa del Rey semi-finals, clinching a hard-fought and dramatic 2-1 victory over Valencia at the iconic Mestalla stadium. The defining moment arrived in the dying seconds of the match, with Iñaki Williams netting the winner in the 96th minute, following a sublime assist from his younger brother, Nico Williams. This crucial goal propelled the Lions into the final four of Spain's premier knockout competition.

The encounter presented a significant tactical challenge for Athletic manager Ernesto Valverde, who was compelled to field a significantly rotated and youthful squad due to various circumstances. Players like Monreal, Nico Serrano, Selton, and Izeta were given starts, a lineup that hadn't even been seen in previous rounds against lower-tier opposition. This bold strategy, a testament to Valverde's faith in his squad depth, proved to be a masterstroke. In stark contrast, Valencia opted for a lineup closer to their first-choice selection, featuring notable players such as Foulquier, Pepelu, Luis Rioja, Danjuma, and Sadiq from the outset.

Athletic Bilbao started the match with visible intent, and Nico Serrano emerged as a standout performer in the first half. He was a constant threat down the right flank, showcasing impressive skill and determination. Despite Athletic's bright start, Valencia had the first clear chance. A misjudgement from Athletic's Lekue on a long pass from Cömert allowed Luis Rioja to break into the box, but his subsequent shot was too central to trouble the goalkeeper.

The opening goal arrived unexpectedly in the 26th minute as an own goal by Valencia's Sadiq. Following a free-kick delivered from the left by Robert Navarro, Sadiq, in an attempt to clear the ball, inadvertently headed it past his own goalkeeper, Dimitrievski. This lead, however, was short-lived. In the 35th minute, Sadiq atoned for his earlier mistake by scoring the equalizer for Valencia. He capitalized on a rare error from Athletic's goalkeeper, Padilla, who fumbled a cross from Rioja, allowing Sadiq to tap the ball into the net.

The equalizer seemed to galvanize Valencia, who enjoyed a period of ascendancy as the first half drew to a close. Both teams had opportunities to take the lead before the break, but a combination of defensive solidity and missed chances meant the sides went into halftime level at 1-1, reflecting the balanced nature of the game.

The second half commenced with no changes for either side, and Athletic Bilbao initially took the initiative. Substitutions began to flow as both managers sought to inject fresh impetus into their teams. Sadiq, who had a mixed game, was eventually withdrawn for Valencia. Valverde, meanwhile, brought on experienced players like Yuri, Galarreta, and Guruzeta, replacing defenders Laporte and Vesga, and midfielder Izeta, to bolster his midfield and attack. Nico Serrano continued to be a thorn in Valencia's side, creating several dangerous opportunities and coming close to scoring twice, reaffirming his status as Athletic's most influential player on the pitch.

With twenty minutes remaining, Valverde made his boldest move, introducing the influential Williams brothers, Iñaki and Nico, into the fray. Their immediate impact was palpable, adding significant attacking verve. Just as the match seemed destined for extra time, the decisive moment arrived. Nico Williams delivered a pinpoint cross from the right wing, finding his brother Iñaki, who expertly finished to beat Dimitrievski in the 96th minute. The roar of the travelling Athletic fans confirmed their passage to the next round.

This victory underscores Athletic Bilbao's resilience and fighting spirit, proving their ability to secure results even when facing adversity. The performance of the Williams brothers, particularly in the crucial moments, highlighted their importance to the team's aspirations. For Valencia, the defeat represents a missed opportunity and a stark reminder of the need to tighten their defense and maintain concentration until the final whistle.

Ekhbary News Agency