Athletic Bilbao left it late to secure a dramatic 2–1 victory over Elche in Round 25 of La Liga on February 21, 2026. A tense encounter at San Mamés was ultimately decided by a brace from Gorka Guruzeta, including a decisive penalty just minutes from full time.
Athletic Bilbao vs Elche Match Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Tournament | La Liga – Round 25 |
| Match | Athletic Bilbao vs Elche |
| Date | 21 Feb 2026 |
| Kick-off | 03:00 |
| Half-Time | 0 – 0 |
| Full-Time | 2 – 1 |
Cagey First Half
The opening 45 minutes offered intensity but little in terms of clear-cut chances. Athletic controlled much of the possession, probing down the flanks and attempting to stretch Elche’s defensive lines. However, Elche remained compact and disciplined, frustrating the hosts and ensuring the teams went into the break locked at 0–0.
Guruzeta Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough arrived in the 64th minute when Gorka Guruzeta found space inside the box and clinically finished to give Athletic a deserved lead. The goal injected life into the home crowd and seemed to put the Basque side in command.
Elche Respond from the Spot
Elche responded with determination and were handed a lifeline in the 69th minute when they were awarded a penalty. A. Silva calmly converted from the spot, leveling the score at 1–1 and setting up a tense final 20 minutes.
Athletic Bilbao vs Elche Match Goals
| Minute | Scorer | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 64′ | G. Guruzeta | Athletic Bilbao |
| 69′ | A. Silva | Elche |
| 89′ | G. Guruzeta | Athletic Bilbao |
Late Drama Seals the Win
With the clock ticking down and the match seemingly headed for a draw, Athletic were awarded a penalty in the 89th minute. Guruzeta stepped up once again and showed composure under pressure, slotting home his second of the night to restore the lead.
The late strike sealed all three points for Athletic Bilbao, strengthening their position in the league standings and rewarding their persistent attacking effort.
Source : oddspedia.com