Fortress San Mames: The numbers behind 2023/24

The numbers behind Athletic Club's form at San Mames throughout 2023/24 reveal how a magnificent home record underpinned a historic campaign for the Lions.

The Cathedral has always had a reputation for being a formidable stadium for any visitor and this year the Zurigorri took things up a level. From the 22 matches played in Bilbao, we recorded just one loss, scored 51 goals and kept 11 clean sheets. All of which was crucial in helping Athletic win their first Copa in 40 years and finish fifth in LaLiga.

One of the areas where Ernesto Valverde's side has improved most is their accuracy in the final third. Athletic always look to attack at home and that persistence paid dividends in 2023/24 with the Lions netting 51 goals at an average of 2.3 per match.

It's not just about the goals either. The Zurigorri made themselves nigh on invincible in Bilbao. Their only home defeat of the campaign came against LaLiga 2023/24 champions Real Madrid on the opening weekend. San Mames didn't witness another loss in the subsequent 21 fixtures of the season.

Athletic's defensive solidity played a massive role in making San Mames a fortress. A robust backline aided by two outstanding goalkeepers in Unai Simón and Julen Agirrezabala saw the Lions keep clean sheets in 11 of the 22 fixtures in Bilbao.

Essentially, being effective at both ends, The Cathedral's iconic atmosphere and amazing support from Athleticzales proved to be the perfect combination for an extraordinary season.