Athletic Club’s Three-Goal Second Half Sinks Atletico Madrid

Athletic Club defeated Atletico Madrid 3-0 in La Liga at Bilbao on Saturday, September 5, with three second-half goals deciding a match in which Atletico had more possession and attempts. The result gave Athletic a convincing home win in Round 4, while Atletico suffered their first league defeat of the season.

Three goals after the interval

The opening half ended without a goal, although Atletico midfielder Lee Kang-In was booked in the 39th minute. Athletic made a change at half-time, replacing Yeray Álvarez with Aitor Paredes, and the hosts struck immediately after the restart. Nico Williams opened the scoring in the 46th minute with a normal goal.

Athletic doubled their advantage only two minutes later. Robert Navarro Muñoz scored in the 48th minute, with Iñaki Williams providing the assist. The early second-half burst changed the shape of the match, leaving Atletico needing to respond while Athletic protected a two-goal lead.

Atletico made four changes between the 58th and 59th minutes, including the introductions of Arnau Ortiz, Koke, Cristian Romero and Julián Álvarez. Athletic then brought on Mikel Jauregizar for Iñigo Ruiz De Galarreta in the 60th minute. Despite those changes, Atletico could not find a goal. Oihan Sancet completed the scoring in the 90th minute to confirm Athletic’s 3-0 victory.

Atletico had the ball but not the result

The scoreline did not reflect Atletico’s statistical advantage in possession or volume. Simeone’s side held 61% of the ball, completed 565 accurate passes from 627 attempts and recorded 15 shots, compared with Athletic’s 39% possession, 314 accurate passes from 385 and 11 shots. Atletico also had seven corners to Athletic’s three.

However, Athletic were effective in the decisive areas. The hosts had eight shots inside the box, scored three times and forced five saves from their goalkeeper Unai Simón, while Atletico managed five shots on target and saw nine efforts go off target. Athletic also blocked three shots, and neither team received a red card.

Sancet stands out as Athletic rise

Sancet was the highest-rated player, earning 8.2 after completing 90 minutes. His late goal and one shot on target capped a strong individual display, while Robert Navarro also received an 8.2 rating for his goal, key pass and four tackles in 66 minutes. Unai Simón’s five saves were also important in preserving the clean sheet.

Athletic entered the match with one win and two defeats from their first three games; the victory moves their record to two wins and two losses, with six points from four matches. Atletico began with seven points from three games and now have two wins, one draw and one defeat. The listed standings place Athletic 13th and Atletico fourth, with the result separating their latest form lines further.