San Mamés homecoming awaits the Lionesses

On Sunday morning, at 12.00 noon, a women’s Basque derby will be held at San Mamés for the first time in the Club’s history. A very special first Primera Iberdrola home match of the season for the Lionesses. After a year with hardly any fans at Lezama, Athletic will be able to feel the support of thousands of fans in the stands. As will former goalkeeper Ainhoa Tirapu, who is set to receive a simple tribute in recognition of her career.

Aside from the atmosphere off the pitch, a celebration of Basque football, the two teams are coming off the back of wins on the opening day of the league season. Real Sociedad beat Valencia CF 4-1 last Sunday at Zubieta, while Athletic overcame Madrid CFF 0-2. The match is therefore expected to be evenly matched.

Real Sociedad have endured a number of departures this summer, with two of their captains leaving to join the Lionesses: Mariasun Quiñones and Itxaso Uriarte, who join Ainhoa Moraza, who also has as player’s with a la Real background. Despite everything, Real head coach Natalia Arroyo has managed to put together a very competitive squad.

In the past four seasons the derbies have ended in 2-1 victories for Athletic Club; the last three after overcoming a one-goal deficit. The Lionesses have not lost at home to Real Sociedad in the league since the 2010-2011 season. It will also be a special day for several players who could play their first minutes at The Cathedral.

Athletic Club Women matchday squad

Iraia Iturregi has named a squad of 20 for the fixture: Andrea de la Nava, Mariasun Quiñones, Ainhoa Moraza, Garazi Murua, Naroa Uriarte, Oihane Valdezate, Nekane Díez, Marta Unzué, Yulema Corres, Leyre Monente Irene Oguiza, Eunate Arraiza, Sophie Istillart, Ane Azkona, Lucía García, Itxaso Uriarte, Paula Arana, Vanesa Gimbert, Ainize Barea and Mariana Cerro.