Athletic Bilbao staged a remarkable comeback against AS Roma, defeating them 3-1 at San Mames Stadium on March 13, 2025, securing their place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League.
The first leg held last week saw Roma take home the advantage with a 2-1 victory, courtesy of goals from Angelino and Eldor Shomurodov, but the second leg unfolded differently for the Italians, who faced significant challenges.
Bilbao started the match strong, reminiscent of their potent home form. Despite recent struggles, which included drawing against Mallorca and losing to Osasuna, they managed to rally on their home turf with Iñaki Williams shining bright.
Williams, who earlier scored for Bilbao at the Stadio Olimpico, contributed significantly, putting his team on the map early with two key assists. The first was pivotal, as he initiated the play leading to Nico Williams’ goal, opening the scoring and bringing the score level on aggregate once again.
The pressure began to mount on Roma when Mats Hummels received his marching orders due to a red card, reducing them to 10 men. The implication of this dismissal was huge, providing Athletic with the edge they needed to push forward confidently.
Just minutes after Hummels's exit, both Iñaki and Leandro Paredes received yellow cards, adding to the tense atmosphere as both teams vied for possession. Athletic exploited their numerical advantage, continuing to press Roma. Nico Williams' individual brilliance was again on display, putting the Spaniards 1-0 up with swift feet and precision. Following this, Yuri Berchiche scored the second goal for Bilbao, solidifying the home team's hold on the match.
Roma attempted to claw back with Leandro Paredes converting from the penalty spot after El Shaarawy was fouled right inside the box. This late first-half goal momentarily reignited hope for Roma, tightening the aggregate score at 2-1.
Despite their efforts, Roma struggled to maintain momentum and could not capitalize on their late goal. Athletic Bilbao used their home advantage effectively, showcasing the value of their fans' muzzled power. The home side’s defense held firm as they sought the all-important third goal.
During the first half, Athletic demonstrated greater control, with sustained attacks on Roma's defense. With each passing minute, the pressure only heightened, as the Spaniards looked for the decisive third goal to secure their advancement. That search culminated when Nico Williams sealed the deal with his second goal of the match, carving through Roma’s weakened defense.
The result left Athletic Bilbao advancing to the quarter-finals, marking not only an emotional victory against their Italian rivals but also highlighting their resilience and tactical prowess under coach Ernesto Valverde.
Roma, under Claudio Ranieri, now face scrutiny over their away form, having not secured victory on foreign soil throughout their last ten European outings, leading to the stark reality of elimination from the tournament. With notable challenges against Spanish clubs historically, this match only deepens their struggles abroad.
Following the match, players and fans alike rallied together, celebrating their hard-earned qualification. "We always believed at home, we are stronger, and we’ve proven just how tough we are here at San Mames," exclaimed Bilbao’s Iñaki Williams.
Overall, this clash epitomized the drama and unpredictability of football: An isolated first-leg win built on momentum can quickly be overshadowed by tactical flaws when faced with determined opposition. Athletic Bilbao thrived amid adversity, showing why they are formidable contenders on home ground.
The match also sets the stage for the draw, which will determine the pathway for Athletic Bilbao as they look to capitalize on this victory and make even more history in the tournament.