The road to the first final (I): Intercity CF
The road to the first final (I): Intercity CF
Athletic’s journey to April 3’s Copa final against Real Sociedad began back in December 2019 in Alicante
Athletic Club’s road to the first final of the now historic April 2021 began back in December 2019 at the Martínez Valero stadium in Elche. The Copa 2019-20 saw the introduction of a new format which consisted of single-leg knockout ties until the semi-finals. Athletic Club’s first opponent were Third Division newcomers Intercity CF.
The Alicante-based outfit, founded in 2017, received the Lions at Elche CF’s stadium, the place where the Rojiblancos would later play the Round of 32. The new tournament format saw the Lions drawn against a club from a region with most Athletic fans outside of the Basque Country. Hundreds of Athletic fans turned up to support their Lions in Alicante, creating an incredible atmosphere.
Among all the Athletic fans there that day, one man stood out: Javier Barajas. Intercity FC’s kitman and a loyal Athletic supporter, Javi was born in Portugalete but has lived in Alicante since he was 17 years old. Before the match kicked off, Aritz Aduriz gave an emotional Barajas a signed Athletic jersey.
The Lions won the clash 0-3 thanks to goals by Ibai Gómez, Beñat and Kenan Kodro.