Eibar 1-2 Athletic Club: Unai López Brace Seals Win At Ipurua

Athletic celebrate one of Unai López’s two goals against Eibar (AC)

Athletic had to wait two weeks to play the second game of the season, but it was worth the wait. Having the extra time to prepare allowed the Lions to go into Ipurua with a clear plan and put in a strong performance. Unai López scored twice as Athletic defeated Eibar 2-1 to pick up the first victory and an important three points.

The match started slowly with both sides trading possession without creating any real chances in front of goal. Yuri Berchiche and Ander Capa would have the first opportunities with one shot sailing wide and the other being saved. Athletic took more control as the game went on and were finally rewarded with the opening goal just before the break.

Unai López scored in the 40th minute with Jon Morcillo and Iñaki Williams combining to set up the goal. However, the lead wouldn’t last for long. Eibar equalized just two minutes after halftime when Kike García beat Unai Simón with a header from a corner kick. Despite conceding, Athletic retained the momentum and immediately began searching for another goal.

Williams looked to have put Athletic back ahead in the 77th minute with a goal inside the box. Asier Villalibre provided the assist with a low cross, but a VAR review overturned the goal because of a questionable offside decision. Athletic continued attacking and wouldn’t be denied for long. López made a late run into the box in the 86th minute and got on the end of a pass from Ander Capa. The 24-year-old scored his second goal to give Athletic a deserved 2-1 lead and the win.

Athletic return from Ipurua with all three points and a chance to start climbing the table in the weeks ahead. On Thursday the Zurigorri host newly promoted Cadíz in the first game of the season at San Mamés.

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