Athletic Bilbao vs AS Roma delivered an electrifying clash at San Mamés, where the Basque club overturned a first-leg deficit to eliminate the Italian side and secure a spot in the Europa League quarterfinals. Nico Williams stole the show with a stunning brace, leading his team to a memorable 3-1 victory on the night and a 4-3 aggregate win.
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🇩🇪 Frankfurt
🇮🇹 Lazio
🇪🇸 Athletic Club
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Bilbao’s Aggressive Start Sets the Tone
With a passionate home crowd behind them, Athletic Bilbao came out with relentless energy. Trailing 2-1 from the first leg, they pressed high and controlled possession from the outset. AS Roma, known for their defensive discipline, looked to hold firm but soon faced a major setback.
Early Drama: Mats Hummels Sees Red
Roma’s game plan took a massive hit in the 11th minute when Mats Hummels committed a costly mistake. Under pressure, he misplaced a pass that Maroan Sannadi intercepted. In his attempt to recover, Hummels lunged in with a reckless tackle, earning a straight red card. With Roma reduced to ten men for most of the match, Bilbao sensed an opportunity to take full control.
Nico Williams Ignites the Comeback
Despite the numerical advantage, Athletic Bilbao found it difficult to break down Roma’s compact defense. However, patience paid off just before halftime.
In stoppage time, Iñaki Williams sent in a deflected cross that found his younger brother, Nico Williams, at the far post. With composure beyond his years, Nico slotted the ball past the Roma goalkeeper, leveling the aggregate score at 2-2 and giving Bilbao the momentum heading into the second half.
Yuri Berchiche Heads Bilbao into the Lead
With the crowd roaring in support, Athletic Bilbao continued to pile on the pressure. Their perseverance bore fruit in the 68th minute when a perfectly delivered corner found Yuri Berchiche. The left-back rose above the Roma defenders and powered a header into the net, putting Bilbao ahead 3-2 on aggregate.
Nico Williams Completes the Job
Roma attempted to regroup, but they had no answer for the brilliance of Nico Williams. In the 82nd minute, the young winger produced a moment of magic. Weaving through defenders with ease, he calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner, securing his second goal of the night and effectively sealing Bilbao’s place in the next round.
Roma’s Late Response Falls Short
Despite being a man down, Roma fought valiantly until the final whistle. In stoppage time, they were awarded a penalty after a handball in the box. Leandro Paredes stepped up and converted from the spot, making it 3-1 on the night. However, it was too little, too late as Bilbao celebrated a thrilling 4-3 aggregate victory.
Athletic Bilbao vs AS Roma: Bilbao’s Europa League Ambitions Grow
With this impressive performance, Athletic Bilbao advances to the Europa League quarterfinals, where they could face formidable opponents such as Rangers or Fenerbahce. Adding to their motivation, the final is set to be played at San Mamés, offering Bilbao a golden opportunity to chase European glory on home soil.
FAQs Abaout Athletic Bilbao vs AS Roma:
Who were the goal scorers in Athletic Bilbao vs AS Roma?
Nico Williams scored twice, and Yuri Berchiche added another goal for Athletic Bilbao. Leandro Paredes scored a late penalty for Roma.
What was the aggregate score of the match?
Athletic Bilbao won the tie with a 4-3 aggregate score after their 3-1 victory in the second leg.
How did Mats Hummels’ red card impact the game?
Hummels’ early dismissal left Roma with ten men for most of the match, allowing Bilbao to dominate possession and create more attacking chances.
Who could Athletic Bilbao face in the quarterfinals?
Athletic Bilbao’s potential opponents include Rangers and Fenerbahce, among others, as they await the quarterfinal draw.
Where is the Europa League final being held?
The final will take place at San Mamés, Bilbao’s home stadium, adding extra motivation for the club to go all the way.
How important was Nico Williams in this match?
Nico Williams was the standout performer, scoring twice and playing a crucial role in Bilbao’s comeback victory. His impact was decisive in securing their place in the quarterfinals.
