LaLiga: Nico Williams Rescues Athletic Club with Late Equalizer Against Mallorca

Athletic Club were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Real Mallorca at San Mames, with Nico Williams' late strike canceling out Antonio Raíilo's opener.

Nico Williams came to Athletic Club's rescue, securing a draw in an underwhelming encounter against Real Mallorca. This result extended Athletic Club's impressive unbeaten run against Mallorca to seven matches, although they would have hoped for a more convincing performance at San Mames.

Athletic Club, still reeling from their late heartbreak in midweek, were seeking a morale-boosting victory at home against high-flying Mallorca. However, the first half failed to deliver any real quality, with Mallorca creating the best opportunity just seven minutes into the match.

Takuma Asano initiated a scoring opportunity for Mallorca, delivering a cross that found Vedat Muriqi, whose clipped effort narrowly cleared Unai Simón's crossbar. Athletic Club also had a glimpse of goal, courtesy of Nico Williams' ingenuity on the edge of the box, but he ultimately dragged his shot wide of the near post.

The match sprang to life after the halftime break, with Mallorca securing the opening goal in the 56th minute. Antonio Raíilo rose above the competition to convert Sergi Darder's corner kick, giving the visitors the lead. However, their advantage was short-lived, as Williams redeemed himself for his earlier miss by heading home a deep cross from Andoni Gorosabel at the back post.

FT: #AthleticMallorca 1-1

The points are shared in Bilbao. 🤝#LALIGAEASPORTS pic.twitter.com/X9EtYh7dIj

— LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) March 9, 2025

The exchange of goals injected more energy into the contest, with Mallorca crafting the best opportunity in the closing stages. Samu Costa made a tireless effort to get into position but failed to keep his 12-yard shot down, squandering a clear-cut chance. As the match drew to a close, Athletic Club pressed for a winner but were thwarted by Mallorca's resolute defense. The visitors, eager to secure a vital point in their pursuit of European football, were content to absorb the pressure and settle for a draw.