Athletic Bilbao Stuns Barcelona with Extra-Time Victory, Advances to Copa del Rey Semifinals
January 26, 2024
MADRID, Spain – In a captivating Copa del Rey quarterfinal clash, Athletic Bilbao pulled off a stunning 4-2 extra-time triumph over Barcelona at the San Mames Stadium, securing a spot in the semifinals of the prestigious Spanish cup competition.
Tale of Two Halves
The match unfolded as a tale of two halves, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Athletic Bilbao drew first blood in a remarkable fashion, as Gorka Guruzeta found the back of the net just a minute into the game. However, Barcelona responded swiftly, with Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal scoring in quick succession to turn the tide in their favor.
The second half saw Athletic Bilbao level the score through a towering header from Oihan Sancet, setting the stage for a tense and unpredictable extra-time period. It was then that Iñaki Williams, who had just returned from Ghana’s disappointing Africa Cup campaign, stepped up to become the hero for his team.
Iñaki Williams’ Heroics
Williams, who came off the bench in the 59th minute, made an immediate impact, scoring a crucial goal in the 107th minute. The forward pounced on a rebound after his initial shot struck the post, sending the ball into the back of the net and sending the San Mames crowd into a frenzy.
To add to Barcelona’s misery, Nico Williams, Iñaki’s younger brother, sealed the victory for Athletic Bilbao in stoppage time, ensuring their progression to the semifinals for the fifth consecutive season.
Barcelona’s Setback
This result marks another setback for Barcelona, who were aiming to reach the Copa del Rey semifinals for the second straight year. The Catalan giants have endured a challenging season, having already missed out on another title opportunity when they were defeated 4-1 by Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final in Saudi Arabia earlier this year.
Athletic Bilbao’s Resurgence
Athletic Bilbao, on the other hand, continue their impressive run in the Copa del Rey, having finished as runners-up in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons. They will be hoping to go all the way this time and claim their first Copa del Rey title since 1984.
Match Highlights
- Iñaki Williams scored the winning goal for Athletic Bilbao in extra time, just days after returning from Ghana’s Africa Cup elimination.
- Barcelona had a golden chance to win the game in regulation time, but Lamine Yamal missed an open net from close range in a one-on-one situation.
- Athletic Bilbao took the lead early on through Gorka Guruzeta, but Barcelona rallied with goals from Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal.
- Oihan Sancet equalized for Athletic Bilbao in the second half, setting the stage for an exciting extra-time period.
- Nico Williams sealed the victory for Athletic Bilbao in stoppage time, sending his team to the semifinals.
Post-Match Reactions
Iñaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao forward):
“Not even in the best of my dreams I could have imagined this. Everything turned out perfect. Yesterday I didn’t imagine being here after a tough blow (with Ghana).”
Xavi Hernández (Barcelona coach):
“When you have a single-elimination game on the road it’s difficult to win. It’s how it goes in the Copa.”
Athletic Bilbao’s Path to the Semifinals
- Round of 32: Defeated UD Ibiza 2-1
- Round of 16: Defeated Valencia 3-1
- Quarterfinals: Defeated Barcelona 4-2 (extra time)
Barcelona’s Path to the Quarterfinals
- Round of 32: Defeated CF Intercity 4-3
- Round of 16: Defeated AD Ceuta 5-0
- Quarterfinals: Lost to Athletic Bilbao 2-4 (extra time)
Upcoming Copa del Rey Semifinals Fixtures
- Real Sociedad vs. Atlético Madrid
- Athletic Bilbao vs. Winner of Valencia vs. Real Betis
The Copa del Rey semifinals will take place on February 8 and 9, 2024, with the final scheduled for April 29, 2024, at the Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville.
Call to Action: Don’t miss the upcoming Copa del Rey semifinals and final! Stay tuned for the latest updates, highlights, and analysis as the competition reaches its climax.