Being superior to their opponents, Athletic make it to the semi-finals

Athletic Club is in the Copa de la Reina semi-finals after defeating Club Deportivo Tacón 2-1 in front of 11,000 spectators at San Mamés. Two penalty goals converted by Garazi Murua with her usual extraordinary ability were enough to knock the team from Madrid down. Cheered up by a spirited crowd, the Red and Whites gave a fine performance.

Ane Azkona’s speed upset the apple cart for David Aznar’s players, who were given their first scare after kick-off. Maite Oroz, with a shot over the crossbar, gave them the second. And they were third time lucky, opening the scoring after a play that cost the side from Madrid dearly. Midfielder Ohale sent a cleared ball upwards, Azkona won it in the box and was knocked over by Ainoa. Garazi did not have mercy.

Despite their fine passing play, the visitors struggled in defence. They had a chance through Thaisa, but nobody was expecting them to score before the break. However, they did it after a corner kick in which an obvious mistake allowed Jessica Martínez put the ball into the net.

The Red and Whites, having recovered from the setback, started the second half with plenty of energy. Yulema Corres had a clear chance and later, on 64 minutes, another penalty awarded after Azkona got to a ball that seemed impossible to reach put them ahead again. Erika was knocked over by Daiane when she was trying to finish off a cross, and Garazi Murua, replicating her first penalty kick, rounded off the final 2-1 scoreline.

With the exception of an occasion when Thaisa hit the post, Tacón did not unsettle Ainhoa Tirapu anymore. Valdezate was close to scoring the 3-1 goal after a superb display of skill, but she lost the angle to shoot after dribbling the visitors’ goalkeeper, firing off target. The final whistle was heartily welcomed. Ángel Villacampa’s side are officially in the semi-finals.