)
After 40 long years, Ernesto Valverde has brought the Copa del Rey trophy back to Athletic Bilbao
Former Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde led Athletic Bilbao to their first Spanish Cup victory in 40 years after a thrilling penalty shoot-out against resilient Mallorca, culminating in wild celebrations both on and off the pitch.
Athletic Club secured their first Spanish Cup victory in 40 years after a gruelling encounter against a resilient Mallorca side, ultimately triumphing in a penalty shootout to claim the coveted trophy. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after full-time, with goals from Jose Copete for Mallorca and Oihan Sancet for Athletic Bilbao.
As the match reached its conclusion, the tension soared as both teams prepared for the penalty shootout. Mallorca players celebrated the prospect of a shootout, confident in their abilities, but Athletic Bilbao had other plans. Vedat Muriqi opened the scoring for Mallorca, but Athletic quickly levelled the score through Raul Garcia.
In the shootout, Muriqi and Antonio Sanchez scored for Mallorca, while Raul Garcia, Iker Muniain, and Mikel Vesga found the net for Athletic Club. Misses by Manu Morlanes, who failed to beat goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala and Nemanja Radonjic, who failed to even hit the target gave Athletic the advantage in the shootout.
The Lions of Bilbao maintained their advantage, ultimately clinching victory with Alex Berenguer's decisive penalty.
Coach's Emotional Reaction
Valverde, who previously tasted cup success with Barcelona in 2018, couldn't hide his emotions as he witnessed his current team break their long-standing trophy drought. Valverde's influence and guidance played a pivotal role in Athletic's triumph, marking a significant milestone in the club's history.
The victory sparked scenes of jubilation both inside and outside the stadium, with thousands of fans joining in the celebrations to mark the end of a four-decade wait for silverware. The streets of Seville were filled with ecstatic supporters reveling in the historic achievement.
Mallorca's Valiant Effort
Despite falling short in the penalty shoot-out, Mallorca showcased tremendous resilience throughout the match, pushing Athletic to their limits and demonstrating their fighting spirit until the very end. Their valiant efforts earned them admiration despite the defeat.
Several memorable moments defined the epic encounter, including Vedat Muriqi's impressive performance for Mallorca and Raul Garcia's crucial equalizer for Athletic. The match witnessed twists and turns, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Athletic Bilbao win topsy-turvy game
From Sergi Darder's opening goal for Mallorca to Oihan Sancet's equalizer for Athletic, the match was filled with dramatic twists and turns, adding to the excitement and tension of the occasion. Both teams displayed determination and resilience, making it a memorable final.
Athletic Bilbao's triumph in the Copa del Rey marked a historic milestone for the club, ending a 40-year wait for major silverware. The victory symbolized the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, making it a momentous occasion for players, coaches, and fans alike.
Related content
)
23:30 - 03.03.2024
Barcelona lose two key players in draw at Athletic Club
Barcelona suffer injury crisis as they failed to capitalise on slip ups from Real Madrid and Girona.
)
17:34 - 24.01.2024
Inaki Williams says he is 'ready' to destroy Barcelona after crashing out of AFCON with Ghana
Inaki Williams lands in Spain ahead of the Copa del Rey clash against Barcelona tonight, hours after Ghana were officially knocked out of the AFCON.
)
16:36 - 12.01.2024
Inaki Williams: Meet 'iron man' footballer that has missed only one La Liga game in 7 seasons
Iñaki Williams, a professional footballer for Athletic Bilbao, has earned the title "Iron Man" of La Liga due to his remarkable record of playing in 251 consecutive league games from 2016 to 2023.
)
12:35 - 23.11.2023
LALIGA club crowned Europe's most confident in nuturing academy talents
CIES Football Observatory has recognised a LALIGA club for its utmost confidence in developing and promoting academy talents in Europe.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)