Points of athletic optimism

Valverde’s team were asked to hit the table at Valverde’s house to show their rivals, and themselves, that they were serious contenders for a European position at the end of the season. The red-white coach studied his rival well, correctly understood how to hurt him, and in the first half he was much better than Michel’s team.

And I’m not just talking about sensations, but about obvious “cod” events. The only thing missing was the success of playing with an advantage, and who knows if that could have changed the course of the game. Otherwise, we have no choice but to follow the red and white team. Girona also had some shots, but that’s to be expected against a revelation team in La Liga and in their own stadium.

Things changed in the second half, with the local team starting to take more control of the game. Both teams had options, but Montilivi’s team seemed to be improving. The Lions, who had believed they would turn the game around with Tsygankov’s goal, found themselves in a predicament. Another jubilant drive from Sunset and a killer finish from Iñaki Williams helped tie the game and justify the score.

As a result of the tie, Athletic believed in victory and outperformed their rivals. He stroked those three points. Girona certainly had chances in the final stages and anyone could have won, so from what we’ve seen so far a draw seems the fairest. According to the local coach, Athletic are the best team to have passed through the stadium in the competition so far, showing that the Rojiblancos are doing well in general.

This game was also a step forward in terms of game control and defensive solidity. It wasn’t perfect, but compared to the previous games against Celta, Villarreal and Valencia, the red and white teams showed improvement with the same squad.

Luque, the strongest defense

Paredes continues to play between the cottons and, despite some unforced errors, is doing very well alongside Vivian, who has appeared as a savior on several occasions. In any case, the best defender was once again Inigo Leque. His form, play and moments of concentration should be celebrated as much as they should be praised for him when he’s not doing well. He made no mistakes, covering the band and joining the attack. He looks energetic and has speed. He has gained confidence by playing regularly and it shows. I hope that continues.

When Athletic attack with ambition and without hesitation, the results will definitely follow. The evaluation of a match always depends on the result and we do not intend to fool ourselves, but the first half of Girona or Villarreal could be an ideal reference for the rest of the championship. The team has recently been more comfortable playing away than San Mamés.

So far, things seem to be going well, even without uncorking the champagne. Because there is a storm brewing in the team’s immediate future. Iñaki Williams’ departure for the African Cup, Nico’s renewal, injuries and attrition at centre-back. of the starting block. As you previously wrote in the report card, the horse is growing steadily. There are still midterm exams and of course final year in June.