Real Sociedad - Athletic Club

Athletic Club lost 1-0 against Real Sociedad in their semi-final second leg at Anoeta. This result, added to the narrow defeat in the first leg, means Athletic won't be chasing another dream in Seville.

It was a tight match, much more even than in Bilbao. The tie was ultimately decided by a controversial penalty, given against Iñigo Ruiz de Galarreta for a nothing challenge on Yangel Herrera.

However, what is true it is that the Lions, who needed two goals to go through, barely had a clear chance. Their only major effort on goal fell to Mikel Vesga, who had a point-blank shot saved by Unai Marrero in injury time when we were already a goal.

Athletic faced an uphill battle after losing 0-1 in the first leg, but the challenge was there to reach a 42nd Copa final.

The Rojiblancos started the match very well, playing in the opponent's half, and Alex Berenguer got a header on target early on.

However, Real Sociedad gradually regained ground and Alex Padilla, who was in fine form all night, needed to make a good save to tip a Carlos Soler free-kick over the bar for a corner.

The Lions attempted to go up a gear after the break, but Real Sociedad were very well organised defensively.

La Real's set pieces were also a threat. Meanwhile, Athletic had a chance to make it 0-1 when Berenguer fired an effort wide from inside the box.

Suddenly, just when Athletic needed to throw everything forward, Mikel Oyarzabal converted the decisive penalty after a long VAR revision.

Vesga had that final chance, but there was to be no late drama for Athletic. Orri Óskarsson hit the post with a header as the game was winding down.

Anoeta erupted with joy. Congratulations are in order for Real Sociedad, who were superior in Bilbao and knew how to capitalise on their advantage at home.

We have no time for regrets. On Saturday at San Mames we host the other losing semi-finalist, FC Barcelona. Let's recover and regroup as we look to keep climbing up the table.