Athletic’s 2-1 victory against Juventus FC at San Mamés was not enough for the lions to win the UEFA Cup on this day 43 years ago. The final, held in the first leg in Turin and then in Bilbao, remained in the balance until the final whistle, as one more goal from Athletic would have made the lions win. In the end, the UEFA Cup flew to Italy, as the goal average (1-0 in the first leg) led Juventus to win on aggregate.
Bettega’s early goal in the sixth minute of the match was eventually decisive, although Athletic reacted with great enthusiasm and drew just five minutes later. It was Irureta who beat Dino Zoff after sending Churruca’s shot into the net. In the second half, Carlos’ impeccable header in the 77th minute put Athletic just one goal away from winning the UEFA final.
The lions were desperately looking for that third goal that would give them glory, but unfortunately it never came. The Italians defended their lead and managed to take the championship.
Iribar and Dino Zoff
That European final in 1977 faced two world football myths: José Ángel Iribar and Dino Zoff, considered to be two of the greatest goalkeepers in history. The legendary Italian goalkeeper, who won the 1982 World Cup with the Italian national team at the age of 40, recently praised ‘Txopo’ Iribar. When asked about the greatest national goalkeeper in history, Zoff replied: “Of my generation, I think Iribar was a great goalkeeper.”
Yeray Álvarez medical report
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The player will undergo surgery to resolve his hernia issue
Valverde: “We still have one match left to reach our goal"
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The gaffer regrets missing an opportunity to take a big step forward with just one match left of the season
The pinnacle of bad luck
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The Lions lost to Elche CF in the last play of a game in which the Lions had all kinds of chances to win
Work plan until June 4
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Barring any last-minute changes, Athletic Club's men's first team will stick to the following work schedule until June 4
Match Pack: Athletic Club vs Elche CF (LaLiga MD37)
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Los Leones must achieve positive results from their final two LaLiga fixtures of the season. First stop a final 2022/23 clash in Bilbao
Squad List: Athletic Club vs Elche CF (LaLiga MD37)
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Ernesto Valverde has called up 22 players for Thursday's LaLiga clash against Elche CF at San Mames
Valverde: “We have to win, there's nothing else to think about”
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Ernesto Valverde is confident Athletic will keep their European hopes alive with an all-important win in the last home match of the season
Practical Information: Athletic Club vs Elche CF
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Relevant information for anyone attending Athletic vs Elche CF at San Mames on Sunday evening (19:00 CEST)
Global TV Guide: Athletic Club vs Elche CF (LaLiga MD37)
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Crucial match as Los Leones play their final match of the season at The Cathedral. Make sure you don't miss it no matter where you are
Valverde: “It’s a step backwards”
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The boss rued a “tough defeat” against Osasuna at El Sadar