Securing Athletic Bilbao's First Victory in Season against Almeria with a Stunning Set Piece Goal

### Securing Athletic Bilbao's First Victory in Season Against Almeria with a Stunning Set Piece Goal

The Spanish football club Athletic Bilbao secured their first victory of the season on October 21, 2023, at home against Almeria. The win was particularly noteworthy due to the dramatic and spectacular set piece goal that clinched the match.

#### Key Moments of the Match

- **Set Piece**: The match saw Athletic Bilbao capitalize on an excellent corner kick from defender Xabi Alonso. The ball deflected off goalkeeper Juan Calleja and found its way into the net for a stunning equalizer.

- **Goalkeeper Intervention**: As the final whistle blew, Almeria's goalkeeper, Juan Calleja, made a crucial save to deny Athletic Bilbao a second equalizer, preserving the tie for both teams.

- **Performance Highlights**: Throughout the match, Athletic Bilbao displayed strong defensive solidity and midfield control. Their pressing and organization were pivotal in keeping the score tied until the decisive moment.

#### Tactical Analysis

Athletic Bilbao's tactical approach was centered around maintaining possession and creating chances through their attacking players. They employed a fluid midfield structure with key players like Iker Muniain and Koke driving the play forward. This combination allowed them to press higher up the pitch and force Almeria into making mistakes.

#### Player Performances

- **Iker Muniain**: The star striker of Athletic Bilbao demonstrated his ability to influence games with his pace and finishing. He scored the initial goal and showed his strength in front of goal throughout the match.

- **Koke**: Known for his creativity and vision, Koke provided numerous assists and played a crucial role in setting up opportunities for his teammates.

- **Xabi Alonso**: The center back performed admirably, providing cover for the defense and contributing significantly to Athletic Bilbao's defensive stability.

#### Post-Match Reflections

Athletic Bilbao manager Unai Emery expressed satisfaction with the team's performance. He praised their resilience and the spirit they showed throughout the game, especially during the tense moments leading up to the set piece goal.

"This is a great result for us," Emery said. "We showed our determination and adaptability, which is something we need more of this season."

#### Future Outlook

With this win, Athletic Bilbao has taken a significant step towards rebuilding their confidence after a challenging start to the season. The team now looks forward to continuing their pursuit of league success, knowing they have shown they can compete against top-tier clubs.

This victory not only boosts the morale of the team but also sets a positive tone for the rest of the season. It remains to be seen how the team will perform against other tough opponents, but this win serves as a reminder of their potential and the progress they can make moving forward.