Inside Athletic

Athletic fell short in the first friendly against Sevilla on Friday night. Gaizka Garitano fielded a relatively mixed lineup and the Lions played well, but it wasn’t enough. Athletic conceded two goals and scored just once to come away with a 2-1 loss at Pinatar Arena.

The Basques were strong to open the game and had the best opportunities early on. Kenan Kodro and Yeray missed on chances inside the box before Yuri Berchiche put a shot off the crossbar. Sevilla started to settle into the game and eventually opened the scoring in the 28th minute. Sergio Escudero beat Unai Simón with a rocket from outside the box to take the early lead.

Athletic responded quickly. Minutes later Iñaki Williams was taken down in the box, giving Athletic a penalty. Iker Muniain stepped up and scored from the spot to level the score which held until the second half. Ten minutes after the restart Sevilla took back their lead with a header from Youssef En-Nesyri. The Lions failed to find the back of the net again and were beaten in the first of two friendlies.

Unfortunately, there was also a potential injury in the loss to Sevilla. Yeray was forced off in the 62nd minute and could be seen holding his groin as he left the field. Early reports suggest the defender suffered a muscle strain which could sideline him for the next league game against Eibar. Oier Luengo took Yeray’s place on the field and Unai Núñez would be expected to start in his place next weekend if needed.