Valverde: "Winning in LaLiga always requires a great effort"

Ernesto Valverde reiterated how difficult it is to win matches in LaLiga as he praised his players for their victory over Sevilla FC in our season opener at San Mames.

Nico Williams opened the scoring from the spot before assisting Maroan to have the Lions 2-0 up at half-time.

Sevilla fought back in the second half, with Lukebakio and Agoumé drawing the Andalusians level. However, Nico and Robert Navarro combined late to see Athletic take all three points.

"Winning in LaLiga is very difficult," Valverde said at his post-match press conference. "You always have to make an incredible effort, and even if you do, everything comes down to the smallest details.

"All matches are tough. It's important to get yourself in a good position. We came off the back of a pre-season in which we didn't get good results.

"We're a team that generally competes well. What's more, I was keen for us to win this first match."

The gaffer admitted it wasn't a match for the feint hearted comparing the twist and turns to a movie.

He said: "It was a fast-paced match, it didn't feel like the first of the season. We dominated in the first half and they were better in the second.

"Taking responsibilty counts for a lot. We were playing at home and when they equalised we had to step up

"It's like a film. When it ends well for you, perfect."