Highlights I Athletic Club 1-2 Real Madrid I LaLiga MD21

A recap of all the action from Wednesday’s end-of-year showdown as Athletic fell to a 1-2 loss against Real Madrid in Bilbao.

The Lions had a mountain to climb after Karim Benzema struck twice within the first six minutes to put Real Madrid 0-2 up.

However, Athletic’s response was almost immediate, with Oihan Sancet driving in a powerful effort which smashed off Thibaut Courtois’ post before hitting the back of the net.

Los Rojiblancos dominated the next 80 minutes of play, putting the visitors under substantial pressure as they chased an equaliser. The best chances came via Iñaki Williams, who hit the side netting in the second half, and Nico Williams, who couldn’t quite lift the ball over Courtois’ when played through on goal by his brother.

At the other end, Athletic had Julen Agirrezabala to thank, the young shotstopper pulling off some fantastic saves to deny Eden Hazard and then Luka Jovic in the final stretch.

Athletic gave it their all and threw every thing at Real Madrid in search of the second goal, but it just wasn’t to be on the night.