Valencia CF - Athletic Club

Athletic Club are out of the Copa del Rey after a fantastic run which saw them knock out Spanish football’s big two, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Gonçalo Guedes’ long-range effort on the stroke of half-time saw Valencia CF beat Marcelino’s side in a game which Athletic dominated but failed to find the back of the net.

The Lions, who were missing Oscar de Marcos through illness, had opportunities to take the lead in the first half. The best of which came when Iñaki Williams was played through on goal, but the striker could not quite get his feet right to finish past Giorgi Mamardashvili.

Once Valencia were on top, José Bordalás’ side looked to shut up shop, forcing breaks in play and taking any momentum out of the match with continuous fouls and players going to ground.

It is also true that Athletic failed to create many meaningful chances in the second half. Defender Iñigo Martínez forced a save with a well-struck free kick and Yuri Berchiche shot wide late on.

What’s more, Julen Agirrezabala stepped up to stop Valencia doubling their lead not long before full-time.

Now Athletic have to pick themselves up and dust themselves down. Levante come to Bilbao on Monday and there is a lot left to play for in LaLiga, including European places.