Valencia CF - Athletic Club

Athletic Club's 14-match unbeaten run came to and end after a Hugo Duro header saw Valencia defeat the Lions 1-0 at Mestalla . It was an even game, with very few chances.

Unai Gómez went close to equalising late on but Giorgi Mamardashvili denied the Zurigorri a point with a sensational save.

It was clear Valencia were not going to be easy opponents, as they had shown at San Mamés. Athletic started well, dominating the game, but they found it difficult to create clear chances.

The home side, who looked launch counter-attacks, also struggled to find rhythm. Athletic's two best opportunities came via Nico Williams, who twice cut in off the left to test Mamardashvili.

Valencia only really started to push forward just before half-time. Hugo Guillamon and Roman Yaremchuk both threatened.

Athletic made a determined start to the second half. Oihan Sancet was inches from making it 0-1 after some great build-up play between Ander Herrera and Iñigo Lekue down the right wing.

Hugo Duro put Valencia ahead when he headed in a José Gayà cross at the back post just after the hour mark. Ernesto Valverde rung the changes as Athletic looked to pull one back, Unai Gómez's introduction gave them some fresh impetus.

Twice the midfielder powered dangerously into the box and on the second occasion he unleashed a low drive which the Georgian shotstopper kept out with a great save.

Rubén Baraja's men never let Athletic hit their stride, ensuring Los Leones suffered just a fourth defeat in 21 league games.

There is no time for regrets. On Wednesday we face FC Barcelona in the Copa at a hopeful San Mames.