Valencia CF

A harsh defeat at Mestalla

After a great first half for Athletic, which only lacked a goal, the match changed due to Vivian's controversial sending off

A tough and harsh defeat at Mestalla. Athletic Club lose 2-0 despite a great first half performance in which the only thing missing was a goal.

Things went downhill for the Lions in the 61st minute when Dani Vivian was controversially sent off after a VAR review for bringing down Baptiste Santamaría.

The Frenchman ended up being decisive as he netted Valencia CF's opener just over 10 minutes later. Hugo Duro scored their second in injury time.

The Lions came firing out of the blocks early on. Determined to take control of the match, they delivered a powerful first half. However, we were thwarted by an inspired Julen Agirrezabala, who made two good saves to deny Oihan Sancet in the opening stages.

The dominance was so overwhelming that it silenced Mestalla. Oihan's first shot was on target, but the second, coming after a great team move, was more dangerous.

Valencia only chance came when Javi Guerra capitalised on a mix-up between our centre-backs. However, but the Lions went back on the attack and Iñaki Williams tested Julen again. The first half ended with two chances for Mikel Jauregizar and Iñaki.

Athletic just couldn't get the ball to cross the line. What no one expected was the outcome of the second half, with Athletic's sending off.

The only positive of the night was Aymeric Laporte's debut, who now starting to settle into the team. We have a chance to make up for this disappointment on Tuesday against Girona FC.