A blistering spell in one minute, with goals from Nico Williams and Robert Navarro, set the team on their way to victory, which was sealed by an outstanding Sancet
Athletic Club flew at San Mames to beat Atletico Madrid 3-0 in a match that was decided by a stunning burst at the start of the second half. Two decisive moves ended with a headed goal from Nico Williams and a superb strike from Robert Navarro in a magical minute, putting Athletic firmly on course for a magnificent victory. A well-organised defence and a late goal from an omnipresent Oihan Sancet did the rest. The crowd could not stop applauding and cheering the promising team led by Edin Terzić.
The Lions played with great intelligence throughout the afternoon, while the crowd, who had already begun the celebrations with a tribute to the Genuine team, proved to be a tremendous ally. Kang In Lee gave Athletic an early scare in the second minute, hitting the right-hand post with a shot that beat Simón, but from then on the team grew into the game. A powerful left-footed strike from Sancet that flew just wide of the net set the tone, although Simón had to be alert to deal with a shot from Baena.
The Lions held firm at the back in the closing stages of the first half, when Paredes came on for Yeray after the defender took a heavy knock. Athletic came flying out of the blocks after the restart and Nico Williams headed home the opener after a shot from his brother was sent into the box. There was barely time to catch their breath before a counter-attack involving Nico, Iñaki and Robert Navarro ended with an exquisite first touch and an even better finish to make it 2-0 and send San Mamés into raptures. A second Robert Navarro gem, pure technical delight.
There was still the whole of the second half to play and Simeone responded by making four substitutions at once. Terzić was not content to sit back either, switching to a back three with Areso and Johaneko operating as wing-backs. Atlético created barely a chance, with Simón in the right place to deny Julián Álvarez.
There was still time for the icing on the cake, which arrived in the 90th minute. Gerenabarrena burst into space and, giving everything to his run, delivered the ball into the box. Sancet, with all the class in the world, fired Cardoso’s clearance into the back of the net. Pure ecstasy. Athletic are picking up speed.
