The long-awaited Basque Derby between Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad ended in a stalemate, as both teams settled for a 1-1 draw in an intense match played at the iconic San Mamés Stadium.
The match began with a setback for the home side, as Gonçalo Guedes put Real Sociedad ahead with his goal in the 36th minute of the first half. However, Athletic Bilbao refused to back down and equalized late in the game thanks to Iñigo Ruiz, who found the net in the 42nd minute of the second half.
Despite Athletic Bilbao dominating the goal-scoring opportunities with a total of 18 shots, they struggled to find the decisive goal that would secure victory against their rivals.
Iñigo Ruiz was undoubtedly the star of the match, contributing significantly with one goal, completing 26 accurate passes, and making two attempts on target. Gonçalo Guedes also made his mark for Real Sociedad, as he recorded one goal, achieved 10 successful passes, stole the ball twice, and also shot twice at goal.
Athletic Bilbao’s coach, Ernesto Valverde, opted for a 4-5-1 formation, featuring Unai Simón in goal; Jesús Areso, Aitor Paredes, Yuri Berchiche, and Adama Boiro in defense; Alejandro Rego, Mikel Jauregizar, Álex Berenguer, Unai Gómez, and Nico Williams in midfield; and Gorka Guruzeta leading the attack.
On the other hand, Real Sociedad’s tactician, Pellegrino Matarazzo, implemented a similar 4-5-1 strategy with Alex Remiro as the goalkeeper; Jon Aramburu, Igor Zubeldía, Jon Martín, and Sergio Gómez in defense; Luka Sucic, Carlos Soler, Pablo Marín, Jon Gorrotxategi, and Gonçalo Guedes in the midfield; and Mikel Oyarzábal up front.
The match was officiated by Guillermo Cuadra Fernández, who kept a strict eye on the players, leading to several bookings throughout the game.
Next up for Athletic Bilbao is a clash against Levante, while Real Sociedad will welcome Elche at the Reale Arena. Following this draw, Athletic Bilbao stands at 11th place with 25 points, while Real Sociedad climbs to 8th position with 28 points in the league table.
Substitutions for Athletic Bilbao
- 45’ 2T – Alejandro Rego for Iñigo Ruiz
- 62’ 2T – Unai Gómez for Robert Navarro, Jon Gorrotxategi for Beñat Turrientes, Luka Sucic for Brais Méndez
- 71’ 2T – Nico Williams for Iñaki Williams, Álex Berenguer for Urko Izeta
- 78’ 2T – Jesús Areso for Andoni Gorosabel
Bookings for Athletic Bilbao:
- 11’ 2T – Yuri Berchiche (Unsporting behavior)
- 23’ 2T – Jesús Areso (Unsporting behavior)
- 29’ 2T – Urko Izeta (Unsporting behavior)
- 37’ 2T – Aitor Paredes (Arguing with an opponent)
Substitutions for Real Sociedad
- 76’ 2T – Mikel Oyarzábal for Orri Óskarsson, Gonçalo Guedes for Wesley Teixeira
- 84’ 2T – Pablo Marín for Aihen Muñoz
Bookings for Real Sociedad:
- 22’ 1T – Igor Zubeldía (Unsporting behavior)
- 5’ 2T – Jon Martín (Insulting or disapproving the referee)
Send-off for Real Sociedad:
- 37’ 2T – Brais Méndez (Direct red card)