Athletic ratings: Guruzeta clinical, Nico vital, Berchiche to the rescue | OneFootball

Guruzeta’s finishing, Nico Williams’ persistence and Berchiche’s impact defined Athletic’s epic cup tie, in a ratings piece heavy on incident and resilience.

As reported by as.com, Calero struck with a precise effort, then added a second after a review in transition. Sobrino converted a penalty for their third and, in extra time, Yayo had a fourth ruled out for offside.

Guruzeta lashed in his first on 26 minutes after a headed assist from Gorosabel, then later buried a second from Galarreta’s pass, with a header off target after the break. Nico Williams saw an early shot saved, hit the post and won a penalty from Víctor García that Sancet converted for 3-3, then earned another that Unai Gómez put away. Williams grafted defensively and emptied the tank.

Paredes had little sway before a straight red for dissent on 56 minutes after a foul on Justo. Galarreta, wasteful in spells despite his assist, was withdrawn to accommodate Berchiche’s return at centre-back, where he read danger sharply and duelled with Ojeda, both booked.

Gorosabel supplied the opening goal but suffered down his flank. Vivian conceded a handball penalty from a corner and looked below his usual level. Lekue was beaten for Calero’s second, improved as time passed, had a late chance, then went off with cramps in the first half of extra time.

Jauregizar battled tirelessly without finesse. Williams curled one chance before being replaced. From the bench, Unai Gómez hit the post and scored his penalty, Areso ran to the byline and lacked conviction before the disallowed fourth, Izeta was combative and booked, and Navarro’s late carrying petered out.

Source: as.com