Athletic Comes Back in Italy and Edges Closer to Champions League Quarterfinals
The Athletic Club secured a crucial victory on their visit to Bergamo, defeating Atalanta 1-2 in the first leg of the round of sixteen. This positive result leaves the Bilbao side in an unbeatable position to seal their advancement in the return leg at their home ground. 🦁
An Adverse Start That Did Not Discourage the Lions
The match at the Gewiss Stadium began with the home team imposing their rhythm. Atalanta took the lead before the 20th minute, when Charles De Ketelaere capitalized on a mistake in the rojiblanca defense to beat Unai Simón. Athletic struggled to create play during the first half, though they managed to contain the opponent without allowing any more clear scoring chances.
Keys to the Rhythm Change After Halftime:- Ernesto Valverde's team came out with greater intensity, pressing higher up to win the ball back.
- Equality on the scoreboard arrived shortly after the restart, with a powerful cross shot from Nico Williams after a pass from his brother Iñaki.
- With the tie, Athletic gained confidence and controlled the game's development better.
The away goal in this tie is worth double, but only if it's scored by Athletic.
The Team Play That Decided the Match
The comeback was completed in the second half. In the 73rd minute, a great team move with several quick passes ended with Oihan Sancet finishing in front of goalkeeper Juan Musso. Atalanta tried to respond in the final minutes but faced a very solid, organized Basque defense with Simón secure between the posts, who conceded no real goal-scoring opportunities.
Prospects for the Return Leg at San Mamés:- Athletic faces the next match with the advantage of the result and the away goals scored.
- The rojiblanca fans trust their team but are aware that in the return leg "things can still happen," such as the opponent scoring.
- The goal will be to manage the tie well and avoid surprises to reach the quarterfinals.
A Firm Step Toward the Next Round
This comeback in Italy represents a crucial achievement in Athletic's European campaign. They showed character to overcome a poor start and execute their plan effectively in the second half. Now, everything points to the dream of the Champions League quarterfinals being closer than ever, although the definitive work will have to be done at San Mamés. ⚽