Valencia CF broke a six-year curse by beating Athletic Club 1-0 at San Mamés. A goal from Umar Sadiq in the second half and three key saves from Stole Dimitrievski gave Carlos Corberán's team three vital points. With 42 points, the Ches sit in twelfth place and have a five-point cushion over the relegation zone with nine points still to play for.
Tactical discipline as the foundation for success in hostile territory 🏆
Corberán set up a low block with quick transitions, neutralizing Athletic's high press. The well-coordinated defensive line limited the home side's attempts to long-range shots. Dimitrievski excelled in reading the game, anticipating crosses and punching clear in aerial duels. The goal came after a recovery in the opponent's half and a through ball that Sadiq finished with precision, showcasing the effectiveness of the game plan.
San Mamés: the stadium where miracles do happen ⚽
Valencia had not won in Bilbao since 2019, a streak that felt longer than the wait for the premiere of a third season of a series. But Sadiq appeared to break the spell and Dimitrievski to remind everyone that, sometimes, a goalkeeper can be worth three defenders. The Valencia fans can now dream of survival without needing to reach for the calculator, at least for this matchday.