Nolito silences the San Mamés

Athletic Club and RC Celta drew 1-1 on Liga BBVA matchday eight. Despite taking the lead, Ernesto Valverde's men picked up a point that is not enough to hoist them from the danger zone.

The Rojiblancos, well aware of what was at stake, brought great intensity to the first half of the match and an early goal from Aritz Aduriz gave them the confidence to believe in victory. After a cross from Andoni Iraola, the ball hit Sergi Gómez's arm and the referee pointed to the penalty spot before the player from Donostia converted the home side's first goal.

Aduriz was close to a second with an impeccable header that forced a stunning save from Sergio Álvarez. The Celestes tried to rally against the superiority of their opponents and Fabián Orellana and Nolito created the most danger for the Galician team, making for a very open match and chances for their side before the break.

After the restart, Athletic's performance was as impressive as in the first half and, Aduriz, the Rojiblancos' best player, had a clear chance to widen the gap. But Celta, who were not about to accept defeat easily, produced more opportunities to equalise through the Orellana-Nolito duo. After a one-two between the two players, the Andalusian striker received the ball in the box and shot across the goal to beat Gorka Iraizoz, making it 1-1 and leaving a bitter taste in the mouths of the San Mamés faithful.