Athletic Club - Viktoria Plzen

Athletic Club's Europa League first phase campaign has concluded on a high note, with the Lions finishing in second position, equal on points with first-placed Lazio. 

Athletic defeated Viktoria Plzen 3-1 at San Mames on Thursday night. Curiously, the Czechs could be one of our round-of-16 opponents, being in the same pot as FC Porto, AS Romas and Ferencvaros. 

With six wins, one draw and one loss from eight fixtures, the Zurigorri skip the play-off and will play the second leg of their round-of-16 tie at San Mames.

Nico Williams, brilliant tonight, almost put Athletic ahead in the first minute when he tested Viktoria goalkeeper Martin Jedlička. Dani Vivian thought he had the Lions 1-0 up moments later after connecting with an Alex Berenguer corner, but the strike was ruled out for offside after a VAR check.

The Lions stuck to their guns and the first goal finally came in the 21st minute. Iñaki Williams launched forward on the counter-attack before playing in his brother to slot home. Ernesto Valverde's men were comfortable on the ball, unperturbed by Viktoria's man marking.

Everything was made easier when Yeray headed in a Berenguer free-kick to double our lead. San Mames had to wait for VAR to confirm it.

Oihan Sancet came off the bench to much acclaim. Milan Havel found himself unmarked at the back post to pull one back for the visitors.  Oihan then almost made it 3-1 after a great turn and shot, but the final glory went to Javier Marton, who chipped over the keeper to score a classy goal in stoppage time.

It's the striker's first official goal as a Lion, and his teammates enjoyed it just as much as he did. 

All went to plan and there was a standing ovation for the squad from the 45,000 Athleticzales savouring an important victory at The Cathedral.

Now it's time to rest and focus on this Sunday's trip to Real Betis.