Athletic Bilbao secured their first win in four matches against Almería on Sunday, thanks to a crucial set piece play. The Basque side managed to capitalize on a rare opportunity when the visitors failed to clear a ball into their penalty area after a corner kick.
The game was played at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, where Athletic Bilbao is based, and it showcased the importance of set piece play in football. The opposing team, Almería, had taken advantage of several chances in the first half but couldn't find the back of the net.
In the second half, Athletic Bilbao found themselves with a golden opportunity to take the lead. A corner kick was awarded to the visitors, and they failed to clear the ball properly. This allowed Athletic Bilbao to take possession of the ball and create a scoring chance.
The goalkeeper, Iñigo Martínez, made a crucial save from the edge of the box, preventing Almería from converting the free-kick. However, Athletic Bilbao capitalized on the situation, with substitute striker Álvaro Negredo scoring the equalizer for the Basque club.
The victory over Almería was a significant milestone for Athletic Bilbao, who have struggled to secure results since the beginning of the season. The narrow win highlights the importance of set piece play and demonstrates the resilience of the Basque side.
This result also sets up a tough challenge for Almería, as they will need to improve their defensive performance if they want to avoid further losses this season. Athletic Bilbao's win also raises questions about the quality of their defense, which has been a major concern throughout the league.
Overall, Athletic Bilbao's narrow win against Almería is a positive development for the club and provides hope for a brighter future. The game showcases the potential of the team and the importance of tactical execution in football.