Gorka Guruzeta netted a crucial late penalty, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory for Athletic Club against Elche at San Mamés.
Athletic Club secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Elche at the Estadio de San Mamés. Forward Gorka Guruzeta emerged as the hero, scoring a dramatic late penalty to seal all three points.
The hosts, Athletic Club, entered the match ninth in La Liga, aiming for European qualification. Elche, in 16th position, desperately sought points to avoid the relegation zone.
The first half saw Athletic Club dominate possession and create chances. Elche displayed a disciplined defensive setup, largely limiting opportunities. Elche defender A. Febas received an early yellow card in the 11th minute.
Athletic pressed relentlessly, registering more shots. Elche goalkeeper Matías Dituro proved vital, making crucial saves. Elche's L. Cepeda also saw yellow in first-half stoppage time.
The break offered Athletic a chance to recalibrate their approach against a stubborn Elche defense. Manager Ernesto Valverde would have pushed for greater penetration.
The second half began with continued Athletic pressure. The deadlock finally broke in the 64th minute. Gorka Guruzeta finished a well-worked move, assisted by Yuri Berchiche, sending the home crowd wild.
Elche responded immediately. Just four minutes later, in the 68th minute, Andre Silva calmly converted a penalty to draw the visitors level, silencing the San Mamés faithful.
With the match heading towards a draw, Athletic pushed hard for a winner. The crucial moment arrived in the 89th minute. Elche's P. Bigas fouled in the box, conceding a decisive penalty.
Gorka Guruzeta stepped up confidently. He clinically dispatched his second goal of the night, securing a dramatic late lead for Athletic Club.
Athletic Club’s attacking superiority was clear, with an xG of 3.19 compared to Elche's 0.82. The hosts unleashed 18 shots (8 on target), but faced a heroic Matías Dituro who made 6 saves. Elche only managed 2 shots.
This dramatic victory allows Athletic Club to consolidate their position in La Liga. For Elche, the late concession leaves them disheartened and deeper in the fight to avoid relegation.
