Deportivo Alavés - Athletic Club

Athletic Club drew 0-0 in a rainy derby against Deportivo Alavés at Mendizorroza. The Lions looked the better side against Deportivo Alaves, but lacked any real chances to score.

Europe is still four points away, but the bad news on the eve of the Super Cup was the early injury to midfielder Unai Vencedor.

In the first half, Marcelino’s side had a couple of chances via Iker Muniain and Iñaki Williams. In return, Miguel de la Fuente headed wide for the home side. The early injury to Vencedor, who was replaced by Unai Zarraga, altered Los Rojiblancos’ plans.

The biggest scare for Athletic came when Rubén Duarte’s attempted to lob Unai Simón. Fortunately the goalkeeper was able to track back and get a fingertip to the effort, knocking it on to the crossbar.

The Lions took control in the final twenty minutes and they looked far more likely to win the derby. A good run by Muniain set up Raúl García, whose cross just failed to connect with Alex Berenguer at the far post. A minute later, Berenguer forced Fernando Pacheco into a fine save with a long-range shot.

There’s no time to dwell. Athletic’s attentions now turn to defending their Spanish Super Cup trophy, where they will face Atlético Madrid in the semi-finals on Thursday.