Athletic rules at San Mamés

Willing Sporting
Abelardo Fernández’s men made a great effort during the match and put their whole energy in trying to win over the three points. It was, initially, Alen Halilović who created danger before the goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz and later on it was Carmona and Pablo Pérez who got the local team in trouble.

Aritz Aduriz
The match against R. Sporting proves once again how fit the Basque player is. His first performance put 2-0 on the score after a penalty saved by Alberto García that was instinctively picked up by the Athletic forward who smashed the ball against the back of the net winning a second goal for his team. In the second half he finished off with his left a counterattack adding this way another goal on his tally of seven in Liga BBVA.

Heading game
It is indeed one of the strong points of Ernesto Valverde`s team, but as well of the Sporting players. In the first half, the team from Asturias had to make a huge effort in this kind of actions trying to take advantage of the usual side kick by Luis Hernández who always tries to connect this way with the tallest players of his team.

Athletic's correct strategy
Following the forth and back strategy dictated by Abelardo, Athletic choose to remain calm and move its players controlling the ball. The pressure they inflicted allowed them to steal the ball up the pitch and, although the score was in their favour from minute 29, the team never gave up and kept playing the same way throughout the match.

Beñat
He has started the season in a splendid shape and Athletic’s midfield is certainly noticing it. He has become essential for Valverde’s team and really gives life that area of the game. He will no doubt to become one of the most important protagonists of this season.