Raúl García: “It’s an honour to fight alongside this group of friends”

Athletic Club forward Raúl García could not hide his delight at being able to reach a second consecutive Copa del Rey semi-final with the Lions.

The Rojiblancos came back from a goal down to win 1-2 (3-2 on aggregate) against Levante on Thursday night, booking a place in the final thanks to an extra-time goal by Alex Berenguer.

“The team has once again shown we have faith in what we do,” Raúl said at his post-match press conference. “Despite going behind, I think we deserved to win the game.

“Levante played their game and made it difficult for us.

“It had to go to extra-time, but I’m satisfied because we were serious in a situation where we had to be and that’s why we’re in the final.”

Athletic will now play two Copa finals in the space of two weeks next month, playing Real Sociedad on April 3 and FC Barcelona on April 17.

“We are going to take it step by step and enjoy today at least,” he added.

“I am very happy because of all the work behind this and hopefully it will be a historic year.

“It’s an honour to fight alongside this group of friends.

“We have a lot of confidence in each other, always help each other and that’s what is giving us the results.”