Athletic Bilbao secured a vital 2-1 victory against Ludogorets Razgrad in their UEFA Europa League Group F match, demonstrating resilience and determination in a comeback that left fans at the San Mamés Stadium in high spirits. The victory was fueled by second-half goals from Iñaki Williams and Nico Serrano, which helped the Spanish side overturn a first-half deficit and earn three important points in the group stage.
Ludogorets opened the scoring in the 20th minute, capitalizing on Athletic Bilbao’s early defensive lapses. A corner kick led to a scramble in the penalty area, and Athletic Bilbao’s defense failed to clear the ball effectively. Ludogorets midfielder Erick Marcus seized the opportunity, gathering the loose ball just outside the box and unleashing a powerful, low shot that threaded through a crowded penalty area to beat Bilbao’s goalkeeper. Initially, the referee hesitated to confirm the goal, but after a VAR review, the goal stood, giving Ludogorets a 1-0 lead and adding pressure on the home side.
Despite falling behind, Athletic Bilbao controlled the majority of possession throughout the first half, moving the ball swiftly through midfield and attempting to break down the Bulgarian side’s defensive lines. However, Ludogorets’ well-organized defense proved tough to penetrate, with Bilbao’s attempts either blocked or missing their intended targets. The frustration was evident as Bilbao pushed forward, creating opportunities but failing to convert them into goals. Ludogorets’ goalkeeper was in fine form, making several key saves to deny Athletic Bilbao an equalizer before the halftime whistle.
As the second half began, Athletic Bilbao returned to the pitch with a renewed sense of urgency, knowing that a loss would compromise their standing in the group. The team increased its tempo, frequently moving the ball out to the wings and delivering crosses into the Ludogorets box. Their efforts finally paid off in the 73rd minute when Oscar De Marcos, the experienced right-back, found himself in an advanced position. De Marcos delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Iñaki Williams was waiting with perfect timing. Williams, known for his speed and accuracy, connected with a precise right-footed shot, directing the ball into the bottom corner of the net. The equalizer sent a wave of excitement through the San Mamés crowd, rejuvenating Athletic Bilbao’s momentum and putting pressure back on Ludogorets.
The celebrations for Williams’ goal had barely subsided when Athletic Bilbao struck again, this time taking the lead in a dramatic turnaround. Just a minute after the equalizer, Athletic capitalized on a swift counterattack that caught Ludogorets off-guard. Midfielder Unai Gómez initiated the move with a slick pass that cut through the Ludogorets midfield, finding Nico Serrano in space. Serrano, displaying composure beyond his years, controlled the ball and finished with a clinical strike, placing it beyond the reach of the goalkeeper to make it 2-1. The quick succession of goals stunned Ludogorets and showcased Athletic Bilbao’s ability to seize momentum when it mattered most.
Following Serrano’s goal, Athletic Bilbao adopted a more cautious approach to protect their lead, prioritizing defensive solidity and controlling the tempo to limit Ludogorets’ opportunities for a late comeback. The defense, which had struggled earlier in the game, remained organized and disciplined, clearing any threats and preventing Ludogorets from creating clear chances. Bilbao’s midfield also played a significant role, helping the team maintain possession and keeping Ludogorets at bay for the remaining minutes of the match.
The final whistle confirmed Athletic Bilbao’s hard-fought victory, securing three points that significantly improve their standing in the Europa League Group F. This win not only bolsters Bilbao’s chances of advancing to the knockout stages but also reinforces the team’s confidence as they prepare for their upcoming domestic fixtures. Coach Ernesto Valverde praised his players’ resilience and adaptability, noting their ability to overcome an early setback and respond effectively under pressure.
With this result, Athletic Bilbao solidifies its position in the group standings, bringing them closer to qualification and raising hopes among fans for a successful Europa League campaign. The team will look to carry this momentum into their next La Liga match against Real Valladolid, with players and supporters alike eager to build on the positive energy from this victory.
