PSV Eindhoven

Athletic lose first warm-up against European opposition

The Lions took the lead thanks to a header from Iñaki Williams, but PSV managed to turn the score around

Athletic Club were given a tough workout as they lost 2-1 against PSV at the Philips Stadion on Saturday evening.

The Dutch champions, an example of the level we will face in the Champions League, are further along in their preparations and proved to be a tricky and uncomfortable opponents. Nonetheless, the experience will come in handy for Ernesto Valverde's Lions going forward.

The match got off to a lively start, with the home side looking to capitalise on the momentum of playing in front of their fans. Athletic adapted to the pressure well and scored the opening goal, with Iñaki Williams heading home from an Alex Berenguer cross.

Despite the goal, Peter Bosz's side continued to push forward. They were rewarded before the half-hour mark when Alassane Pléa beat Unai Simón with a low shot.

After the restart, Athletic remained competitive against well-drilled opponents. PSV were fortunate when Joey Veerman's long-range effort took a deflection off Beñat Prados and wrong-footed the Athletic goalkeeper.

The Zurigorri fought hard but couldn't find the back of the net. Newcomer Jesús Areso was lively down the right-flank after coming on for his debut, while Mikel Jauregizar enjoyed his first taste of pre-season action and Robert Navarro went close to levelling the score five minutes from time.

Valverde's charges can be content with how they competed at the home ground of a Champions League-level opponent that are further ahead in their pre-season preparations.