La Liga: Athletic Club Holds Off Sevilla's Comeback Attempt

Athletic Club edges Sevilla 3-2 in thrilling La Liga opener

Athletic Club secures a 3-2 win over Sevilla in a thrilling La Liga opener, despite squandering a two-goal lead.

Nico Williams played a pivotal role in doubling Athletic's advantage shortly after, producing a mesmerizing...

Athletic Club secured a thrilling 3-2 win over Sevilla FC in their La Liga opener. Despite squandering a two-goal lead, they managed to hold off Sevilla's comeback attempts. This victory extends Athletic Club's unbeaten streak in their head-to-head matches to five games, with four wins and one draw.

The hosts started the game on a high note, but Sevilla FC had the first shot on target courtesy of Akor Adams, which was expertly saved by Unai Simón. Despite this early threat, Athletic Club's defense held strong, allowing them to build momentum and take the lead.

Athletic Club had a two-goal lead at one point, but Sevilla FC staged a comeback, narrowing the deficit. However, the hosts managed to hold on and secure a 3-2 win. The match saw some impressive performances from both teams, with Athletic Club's attackers playing a crucial role in securing the victory.

Unai Simón narrowly avoided trouble on 20 minutes when Dodi Lukebakio's cross took a wicked deflection off Mikel Jauregizar and hit the woodwork, bouncing into Simón's grateful gloves. However, Athletic Bilbao took the lead on 34 minutes when Alex Berenguer's pass released Nico Williams, who was fouled in the penalty area by Juanlu. Williams himself converted the resulting penalty, sending Orjan Nyland the wrong way.

FT: #AthleticSevilla 3-2

🦁Athletic Bilbao came back in an incredible first game. #LALIGAEASPORTS pic.twitter.com/QaixgBIjIQ

— LALIGA English (@LaLigaEN) August 17, 2025

Nico Williams played a pivotal role in doubling Athletic's advantage shortly after, producing a mesmerizing turn before his deflected cross found Maroan Sannadi, who tucked home from close range. Williams' impressive performance was a highlight of the match, showcasing his skill and creativity on the pitch. His recent contract extension with Athletic seemed to have given him extra motivation, as he continued to shine for his team.

The second half was filled with excitement, as Nico Williams hit the post with a shot that would have put Athletic Bilbao 3-0 up. However, Sevilla FC quickly responded, with Dodi Lukebakio scoring a stunning 25-yard goal that cannoned off Unai Simón's post and into the net. The visitors continued to press, with Akor Adams testing Simón twice in quick succession.

Sevilla FC equalized soon after, with Lucien Agoume scoring the second goal after a quick free-kick led to a cross that found its way to him. The goal came after Adnan Januzaj was fouled shortly after coming on as a substitute.

Despite Sevilla FC's strong comeback, Athletic Bilbao ultimately emerged victorious. Substitute Robert Navarro, making his debut, scored the winning goal after Nico Williams' clipped cross was poorly cleared, allowing Navarro to tap it in and secure a 3-2 win for Los Nervionenses.

Sevilla's four-year opening match losing streak remains intact, but new head coach Matías Almeyda likely drew encouragement from his team's spirited performance against Athletic Bilbao. Despite ultimately falling short, Sevilla's display of heart and determination suggests they may be turning a corner under Almeyda's leadership.

Athletic Bilbao's Ernesto Valverde will likely feel a mix of relief and satisfaction following his team's 3-2 win over Sevilla. The victory not only earned them three points but also showcased their ability to capitalize on Sevilla's mistakes and hold off their opponent's attacks. Valverde's team demonstrated resilience and tactical acumen, which will be crucial as they navigate the La Liga season.