Athletic Bilbao edged closer to the European places in LaLiga after battling to a dramatic 2-1 win over Elche CF at San Mamés, a result that stretched the visitors’ winless league streak to eight matches.
The hosts dominated from the outset and quickly asserted control. Clear openings arrived early, with Gorka Guruzeta squandering a gilt-edged chance when he fired over from close range despite being left unmarked inside the box.
Athletic’s attacking rhythm largely flowed through Guruzeta, who soon tested Matías Dituro with a well-struck volley from distance.
The Elche goalkeeper reacted sharply, tipping the effort away to keep the contest level.
It appeared only a matter of time before Ernesto Valverde’s side broke through. Alejandro Rego came within inches with a curling strike destined for the bottom corner, but Dituro produced a superb one-handed save to frustrate the home crowd once again.
The Argentine shot-stopper was called into action yet again before the break, denying Iñaki Williams after the forward danced through the defence and unleashed a powerful drive.
Elche survived the first half largely thanks to their goalkeeper’s heroics, but the pressure finally told after the interval. Yuri Berchiche surged down the flank and drilled a dangerous ball across goal, where Guruzeta was perfectly positioned to convert from close range.
The match then descended into controversy. A late challenge by Iñigo Lekue on Tete Morente resulted in a penalty for Elche.
André Silva’s initial attempt was disallowed for a double touch, yet instead of an indirect free-kick being awarded, the visitors were permitted a retake.
Silva made no mistake the second time, slotting home to level the score and spark fury among the San Mamés faithful.
Athletic struggled to regain momentum in the aftermath, seemingly unsettled by the decision.
However, fortune swung back their way late on when Pedro Bigas clumsily brought down his man inside the area. Following a brief VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot.
Guruzeta stepped up and calmly dispatched the penalty, sealing a vital victory and capping a dramatic evening in Bilbao.
The result keeps Athletic firmly in the hunt for a top-six finish, while Elche remain in danger and could slip further down the table as rivals prepare to play.
