Athletic Club's preparation for their highly anticipated Europa League quarter-final second leg against Rangers couldn’t have been better, as they secured a vital 3-1 win over Rayo Vallecano, ending a frustrating three-match run of 0-0 draws.
The victory not only gave the Basque giants a much-needed confidence boost but also extended their eight-match unbeaten home record, leaving supporters optimistic ahead of Thursday’s crucial clash.
Rangers will be travelling to the Basque Country this week following a tense 0-0 draw in the first leg at Ibrox, hoping to produce another famous result on the road.
However, they’ll face a rejuvenated Athletic Club side, who looked on the brink of another underwhelming La Liga result before a remarkable second-half turnaround.
With their home record under serious threat after Rayo Vallecano’s Pathe Ciss put the visitors ahead in the first half, manager Ernesto Valverde's tactical changes turned the tide.
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The experienced coach made several key substitutions that paid immediate dividends. Oihan Sancet, introduced off the bench, equalised from the penalty spot just before the hour-mark, giving Athletic a much-needed lifeline.
However, it was the introduction of Nico Williams, alongside his brother, Inaki, that really sparked the home side into life.
Nico Williams, one of Athletic's most dangerous attacking threats, showed his quality as he netted goal to turn the scoreline around, sending the San Mamés faithful into raptures.
With the momentum firmly in their favour, Sancet completed the turnaround with a stunning strike late in the game, wrapping up the 3-1 win and sending Athletic into their final preparations for the Rangers tie with a sense of belief.
