Athletic Club reignited their UEFA Champions League qualification hopes with a crucial 1-0 win over Las Palmas, thanks to an early strike from the ever-reliable Iñaki Williams. The game burst into life just six minutes in when Williams, with his trademark pace and composure, glided past the defence to finish calmly from close range.
It was a moment of class that set the tone for the evening – quick, clinical, and calculated. For Las Palmas, the euphoria of their last-gasp win against Atlético Madrid faded rapidly as reality hit hard at the fortress of San Mamés.
Valverde Prioritises Europe but Maintains Focus
While Athletic Club is still eyeing a top-five LaLiga finish, all eyes in Bilbao are gradually shifting to the UEFA Europa League semi-finals. Head coach Ernesto Valverde made that clear with the early substitution of Oihan Sancet, a vital creative force for the Basques.
Despite that tactical adjustment, the hosts remained in control, balancing defensive discipline and attacking intent with maturity. It’s this blend of focus and rotation that could serve them well both domestically and in Europe.
Las Palmas Lack Bite Despite Ball Control
To their credit, Las Palmas did not roll over. They controlled good phases of possession in midfield but struggled to break down a resolute Athletic defence. Their best moment came courtesy of Adnan Januzaj, who nearly stunned San Mamés with a dipping half-volley that smacked off the crossbar from 25 yards out.
Jamie Mata and Marc Conda also had late opportunities, but those chances were snuffed out as quickly as they came. The visitors simply couldn’t find a way past the wall of red and white shirts.
San Mamés – The Unbreakable Fortress
With this result, Athletic Club extended their remarkable home record, having now lost just once at San Mamés since August 2023. The venue has become a nightmare for visiting teams and a launchpad for Athletic’s European dreams.
The win also extends their lead over sixth-placed Real Betis to a commanding nine points, placing them in pole position to secure a top-four finish and return to the Champions League for the first time in years.
What Next?
For Las Palmas, the road ahead looks shaky. They remain just one point above the relegation zone, and with a clash against a revived Valencia side coming up, the pressure continues to mount. If they don’t find goals – and fast – the drop zone could pull them in.
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Final Whistle
This was a win that echoed far beyond San Mamés – a statement that Athletic Club mean business both at home and in Europe. With a confident display, smart rotations, and rock-solid defence, Valverde’s men are proving they have the depth and drive to compete on multiple fronts.
As for Las Palmas, survival will require more than spirit – they’ll need goals and grit in the coming weeks.
