Southampton FC - Athletic Club

Athletic Club has defeated Southampton FC 1-3 in the first of two friendly matches scheduled for this weekend in England. Tomorrow, they return to the legendary Anfield to visit Liverpool FC.

Vesga’s header from a corner, Villalibre’s great left-footed strike into the top corner, and an own goal from Bednarek, set up by Nico Williams, tipped the scales in the Bilbao side’s favour. The whole squad will be looking to perform at the same level to sow doubts in Marcelino’s mind.

The Lions were the better side at St Mary’s, under the eye of the One Club Award winner Matt Le Tissier. Especially in the first half, in which they were gaining ground on their opponents, who were disarmed by their know-how.

After an overlooked penalty to Zarraga, Athletic took the lead from Muniain’s well-taken corner at the near post, headed in by Vesga (33rd minute).

Raúl García had the chance to make it 0-2, but sent the ball over and before the break Villalibre finished well from a counter-attack woven by Nico Williams.

The Saints came out injured after the break and were caught just after the restart when Theo Walcott beat Ezkieta, who had replaced Agirrezabala, on his way out.

The Navarrese goalkeeper stopped Obafemi from scoring an equaliser. The game was finally settled in a counter-attack when a good cross from Nico Williams led to Bednarek scoring an own goal.