San Mamés Delivers Verdict: New Setback and Boos Erupt
Athletic Club lost 2-1 to Villarreal at San Mamés. The crowd numbered 42,981. Boos erupted at halftime. The side wore a retro kit inspired by 1970–1975. The defeat represents a new setback. Athletic have now gone 21 matches without a clean sheet.
Lineups and tactical changes
Valverde changed three positions from the Getafe game. Lekue moved to right back and Vivian shifted into central defence with Laporte.
Ruiz de Galarreta returned to the double pivot with Jauregizar. Nico Williams started after ten matches out with pubalgia. Iñaki, Sancet and Guruzeta formed the front three.
Marcelino also adjusted his side after Montilivi. He paired Gerard Moreno with Oluwaseyi. Alfon and Buchanan operated on the wings.
Key moments in the game
The opening stages saw both teams attack with intent. Pape Gueye unleashed a powerful strike that Unai Simón pushed away with his fingertips.
Yuri produced Athletic’s clearest chances. Luiz Júnior matched a strong volley after a fine pass from Galaxy.
Villarreal struck on the break. Oluwaseyi led a swift transition and crossed for Sergi Cardona. Cardona lobbed Simón to make it 0-1.
A collision between Laporte and Gerard Moreno left both players treated for cuts. Seconds before half time, Lekue miscontrolled a risky flick. Alfon recovered the ball and scored to make it 0-2.
Lekue was replaced by Gorosabel at the interval. Villarreal continued to threaten on counters. Simón kept out Buchanan to prevent a third goal.
Mikautadze came close to a stunning goal after a Laporte giveaway. The shot flew just over the bar. Athletic offered a late response when Guruzeta scored in the 83rd minute from a Yuri assist.
Aftermath and standings
San Mamés delivered a clear verdict on the team’s form. The home crowd voiced their anger loudly as many fans walked out before full time.
With the defeat, Athletic remain on 38 points. They sit six points above the relegation zone.
Filmogaz.com will continue to follow the club’s progress. The result will increase pressure on the coaching staff and squad.
