Copa del Rey Quarterfinals: Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad Advance
In an exhilarating Copa del Rey quarterfinal match on Wednesday, Athletic Bilbao secured their place in the semifinals with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Valencia, thanks to a last-minute goal from Iñaki Williams. This win marks the sixth time in seven years that Athletic will advance to the semifinals of the prestigious tournament, reinforcing their prowess in Spanish football. Athletic previously lifted the trophy in 2024 and finished as runner-up in the two seasons preceding that title.
Match Highlights
The decisive moment came six minutes into stoppage time, when Williams skillfully converted a left-footed shot from the center of the penalty area, following a swift counterattack initiated by his brother, Nico Williams. Athletic initially took the lead early in the match, with an own goal from Valencia’s Umar Sadiq, but the home team quickly responded to draw level with a goal from Sadiq himself just nine minutes later. Athletic even had a chance to extend their lead with a missed penalty kick by Mikel Jauregizar in the 75th minute.
“The match was a true test of skill and determination, culminating in a thrilling finish that showcased the talent of both teams.”
Off-Field Tensions
Off the field, tensions ran high as reports emerged that Athletic’s team bus was pelted with objects by fans prior to the match. Additionally, a mural celebrating the Williams brothers in Bilbao had recently been vandalized amid some criticism directed towards them.
Real Sociedad’s Thrilling Victory
On the same night, Real Sociedad also advanced to the semifinals with a thrilling 3-2 win over Alaves, marking their third consecutive appearance in this stage of the tournament. Young Icelandic striker Orri Oskarsson netted the decisive goal in the 80th minute. The match was a rollercoaster, beginning with Abde Rebbach putting Alaves ahead in the eighth minute, only for Sociedad’s Mikel Oyarzabal to equalize soon after. Alaves then regained the advantage through a Toni Martínez penalty, but Gonçalo Guedes pulled Sociedad back level in the 76th minute after Martínez missed a penalty earlier.
Sociedad’s impressive run comes after they have remained undefeated since their last league match, a 2-1 home defeat against Girona in December. They head into this semifinal round after a recent 1-1 draw at Athletic Bilbao in league play on Sunday.
Looking Ahead
Meanwhile, the previous day saw FC Barcelona defeat Albacete 2-1, with both goals coming from Lamine Yamal and Ronald Araujo. Albacete had previously made headlines by eliminating Real Madrid in the Round of 16. Looking ahead, attention will turn to Thursday’s matchup where Real Betis will host Atletico Madrid, led by Diego Simeone.
Both Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad’s victories highlight the strength of the Basque clubs in this year’s Copa del Rey, as they prepare for what promises to be an exciting semifinal round.
