Real Madrid prove to be mission impossible for Athletic Women

The Copa de la Reina continues to elude Athletic Club. There was excitement about this Final Four forrmat but Real Madrid proved to be mission impossible for the Lionesses. Despite losing 4-0 at Butarque, this young Athletic side will have gained an invaluable experience for the future. 

The reality is that there was a big difference compared to Alberto Toril's team, who went into the game hungry. Iraia Iturregi opted for a very young line-up, with the exception of goalkeeper Mariasun Quiñones, every player in the starting XI was under 23 years old. Real Madrid wanted their first major women's trophy and it soon became clear they would not be messing around.

Scotland's Caroline Weir made it 1-0 early on with a classy lob. The goal left the Lionesses stunned and Caicedo crashed a shot against the post soon after. To make matters worse, an injury to Valdezate meant she was replaced by Ane Azkona in the 16th minute.

Toletti scored Madrid's second, her effort taking a deflection off Maite Zubieta before going in. Gradually, Athletic got a foothold in the game. They had a bit more possession but lacked the finishing touch. Athenea made it three, the forward latching onto a pass from Feller at the near post. It effectively killed off the match.

Things got even uglier when 26 seconds into the second half, Weir made it 0-4. Athletic looked to move the ball around quicker and at least get on the scoreboard but they struggled to shake off Madrid's organised press. 

The referee failed to award Athletic a penalty when a Peke shot struck Kenti Robles hand in the box. And then there was a short break as the medical services handled a small medical issue in the stands.

The end of the season and the end of the dream. A big shoutout to the large number of Athletic supporters who came to Leganés.