Atletico Madrid stumble as Athletic Bilbao secures 0-1 victory in copa del Rey Semifinal Thriller
In a riveting clash for the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg, Atletico Madrid squared off against Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday night. Despite a late-game penalty drama, Atlético suffered a surprising 0-1 defeat at home, giving Athletic Bilbao a substantial advantage leading into the return leg at San Mamés in three weeks.
The initial half unfolded with a whirlwind of intensity from both sides, featuring chances aplenty.
The pivotal moment emerged when Reinildo’s foul inside the box handed Athletic Bilbao a penalty, expertly converted by Álex Berenguer, propelling his team to a 1-0 lead.
The second half showcased an open and dynamic encounter. Atlético pressed for an equalizer, while Athletic Bilbao posed constant threats on the counter.
The match delivered moments of brilliance, including Oblak’s sensational save denying Asier Villalibre and Samu Lino’s narrowly missed attempt.
Despite VAR review negating a potential Atlético penalty for offside, the score remained unaltered.
Ernesto Valverde’s squad boldly put an end to Atlético Madrid’s impressive 28-match unbeaten streak at the Civitas Metropolitano.
With this triumph, Bilbao takes a front seat in this Copa del Rey semi-final, leaving Atlético Madrid with the challenge of orchestrating a comeback in the return leg.
