Athletic Club - UD Las Palmas

Athletic Club now have a European ticket in their pocket, with no less than five games to spare. At the moment we're in the Conference League, we're virtually in the Europa League and today's victory consolidates our position in fourth place, which, together with fifth place, would see us qualify fo the Champions League place. 

Iñaki Williams' fantastic fourth-minute goal has sent Athletic to Europe for the second year in a row. Next up we host Manchester United in the Europa League semi-finals. It's been a tremendous season for Ernesto Valverde's Lions. And now we want to put the cherry on top of the cake.

The Zurigorri found an early winner against Las Palmas. Iñaki's strike the result of a phenomenal pass over the top from Iñigo Ruiz de Galarreta which the no.9 then prodded past Horkas from close range.

Oihan Sancet was subbed off after picking up a knock, but his replacement, Peio Canales, gave an assured performance. The visitors almost equalised when Sandro played Oli McBurnie through on goal, but the Scot was denied by an outrushing Unai Simón.

Athletic were like a whirldwind in the second half as they sought a second. It almost came straight after the restart when Alex Berenguer hit the crossbar with a header from an Oscar de Marcos cross.

Canales then struck wide after a smooth counter-attack with Iñaki Williams. Moments later, Maroan had an effort stopped by Horkas after a similar counter launched by Yeray.

Las Palmas went up a gear in the final quarter and Adnan Januzaj threatened with a powerful shot. Simon was called into action again and after Dani Vivian had gone close to making it 2-0, the Canary Islanders pushed Athletic to the brink, but our Lions managed to hold out for the win.

The victory increases our gap over Villarreal CF to eight points, with the Yellows having a game in hand against RCD Espanyol soon, while Real Betis are now nine points behind us.

To top of a great evening, Bilbao Basket won their first European title tonight too! Zorionak, lads!