“You can’t even imagine how valuable this victory is”

“You can’t even imagine how valuable this victory is. We were all aware that the three points were crucial. There was a lot at stake for us today. You have to play these matches with intensity, just as we did. Keeping a clean sheet after such a long time is also hugely valuable. Unai Simón was decisive with his saves.” Ernesto Valverde spoke very highly of Athletic’s victory over Osasuna. A victory worth its weight in gold ahead of what lies ahead and to dispel the negative feelings of recent weeks. 

The team connected with San Mamés from the start and the Lions now have 41 points: “Everything has to begin with the team to engage the fans. People want to see a competitive attitude. We’ve talked a lot this week about the situation we were in, about the narrow margins in the table, and there was a lot at stake today. We faced our fears and showed what we’re made of. It was a survival exercise in the final minutes, and we held on in the end.”