Brighton and Hove Albion - Athletic Club U21
- 29' Mullins
- B. García 4'
- Varela 11',17'
- Elías 36'
- Hierro 44'
LocationAmerican Express Elite Football Performance Centre , Lancing
Athletic Under-21s defeat Brighton to secure semi-final spot
The Cub overwhelmed the English outfit to book a place in the Premier League International Cup semi-finals
Athletic Club's Under-21s were too strong for hosts Brighton & Hove Albion as they romped to a 1-5 victory in their Premier League International Cup quarter-final on Wednesday night.
The English side went into the tie having not conceded a single goal in the group stages, but let in five in the first half against the Cubs.
Young Irish striker Jamie Mullins tried to pull Brighton back into the match, but the goals scored by Beñat García, Iker Varela (x2), Javier Elías and Asier Hierro sealed the win with the first 45 minutes.
Athletic's high press was key on the night. García put Athletic ahead after stealing possession early on, and Varela scored twice in quick succession to make it 3-0 before the 17th minute.
Mullins cut the gap for Brighton, but Elías, with a superb chipped finish, and Hierro gave an unassailable lead.
Athletic coach Jokin Aranbarri introduced Danel Belategi, Igor Oyono, Johaneko Louis-Jean and Ander Peciña in the second half and the match slowed down considerably thanks to the Zurigorri's dominance.
Brighton improved in defence, but there were few chances for either side and Athletic booked a spot in the semi-finals with ease.
