The famous San Mamés Stadium witnessed a pulsating UEFA Champions League night as Athletic Club overturned an early deficit to beat Qarabağ FK 3-1, securing their first points of the 2025/26 campaign. The win revived the Basque side’s European hopes after a difficult start to the season.
For a team that had won just once in eight matches before this clash, Ernesto Valverde’s men produced a performance full of grit, intensity, and attacking intent — much to the delight of their home supporters.
Qarabağ Strike Early, but Athletic Take Control
The visitors, who had enjoyed a perfect UCL start and led the Azerbaijani league, stunned the home crowd early. A miscommunication between Aymeric Laporte and Aitor Paredes gifted Leandro Andrade a simple finish inside the opening minute.
However, that was as good as it got for Qarabağ in the first half. From that point on, Athletic dominated possession, pressing high and carving out numerous chances. Oihan Sancet, Nico Williams, and Gorka Guruzeta all went close before Guruzeta finally restored parity with a calm finish that reflected the home side’s growing confidence.
Second-Half Brilliance: Navarro and Guruzeta Seal It
After the interval, Athletic continued to dictate play. Despite missed chances from Paredes and Nico Williams, the breakthrough came through substitute Robert Navarro, who curled in a sensational strike from the edge of the box — a goal worthy of any Champions League highlight reel.
Qarabağ nearly snatched a late equalizer when Oleksiy Kashchuk’s lob was cleared off the line by Yuri Berchiche, but it was Guruzeta again who had the final say. His volley from outside the box sealed the 3-1 win — Athletic’s fourth ever victory in the UCL proper — and reignited their campaign.
What This Means for the Group
The result shakes up the group standings. Athletic Club’s revival gives them a realistic shot at the knockout stages. At the same time, Qarabağ, despite their first away defeat of the season, remain in strong contention thanks to their excellent early results.
For Tanzanian football fans, especially those who love following European nights, this was a reminder that determination and teamwork can overcome any shaky start — lessons mirrored by Tanzanian Premier League clubs fighting to make their mark in continental competitions.
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Final Thoughts
Athletic Club’s victory over Qarabağ FK wasn’t just about three points — it was a statement of intent. With stars like Guruzeta and Nico Williams stepping up, the Basque side reminded Europe that they belong on the big stage.
And for fans in Tanzania, the Champions League drama continues — with passion, pride, and maybe a few smart bets on Bangbet to make those thrilling nights even more rewarding.
