Athletic Club of Bilbao, the reigning Copa del Rey champion, continues its title defense after overcoming Unión Deportiva Logroñés in a thrilling Round of 32 match on January 4, 2025. While the scoreboard remained locked at 0-0 through regular and extra time, Athletic prevailed through penalties, securing their advancement against the Segunda RFEF side.
The last time the red-and-white team faced elimination in this tournament format was over 21 years ago, making this victory all the more significant. Uninspired at times, Athletic struggled to impose their style against Logroñés, who put up a resilient fight throughout the match.
The match, held at Las Gaunas stadium, unfolded slowly, with Athletic appearing contemplative and frustrated by the subpar condition of the pitch. Logroñés managed to hold their ground without too many setbacks, leading to Athletic’s inability to convert their technical superiority on the field.
Despite their coach claiming such matches fill him with panic, the players set out determined to control the game but often faltered without increasing the tempo. Their best chances fell flat, including missed opportunities from Djaló and Berenguer early on.
With the first half drawing to a close and the score still level, Athletic’s frustration began to boil over. Berenguer, who appeared most motivated, failed to find the net with another wayward effort. Ernesto Valverde, Athletic's head coach, made adjustments at halftime to inject life back onto the pitch, including introducing the Williams brothers, which briefly gave Athletic more momentum.
Even with substitutions, the lethargy returned as Logroñés held firm, refusing to buckle under Athletic's pressing. Guruzeta caught the spirit of the moment, making two attempts at goal within minutes, both failing to find the back of the net.
Frustration mounted as Athletic sought to score, appealing for handball within the opponent’s area, but without VAR to assist their case, they faced the reality of extra time after going scoreless.
Extra time saw Athletic turn up the pressure, but Logroñés continued to hold on with admirable tenacity. A brilliant save from the Logroñés goalkeeper denied Nico Williams late, with the home crowd at Las Gaunas fervently shouting, "Yes, we can!".
When the whistle blew, signaling penalties, the tension was palpable. Athletic Club held their breath as their opponents aimed for success. Aguirrezabala, stepping up for Athletic, capitalized on the pressure felt by Logroñés, whose players stumbled at the line. Although Nico Williams missed his attempt, Athletic sealed their progression based on the errors of Logroñés.
This latest chapter for Athletic Club serves as both a wake-up call and validation of their championship ambitions. The team walks away from this narrow escape with renewed determination, hoping the drama of their Copa del Rey advancement propels them to stronger performances moving forward.