Athletic Bilbao head coach Ernest Valverde was clearly happy in his post-game presser after his side bagged a surprise 2-0 win over Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbache in Turkey.
Two goals from Inaki Williams in the fifth and 45th minute respectively in the first half effectively sealed the tie with Fenerbache’s chances of mounting a comeback dented by the dismissal of Mert Muldur in the 69th minute.
Williams’ brace were his third and fourth goals in the Europa League this season in six games to register his eighth goal in all competitions and Valverde touched on the importance of having the Black Stars forward in the team.
“For us, Iñaki Williams already knows what he means because of the heart he has and how he pushes us. For us, this victory means a lot. We are a team that has just arrived in continental competition after years and it leaves us in a good position.”
In the lead up to the game, Williams ended his mini goal drought by scoring in Bilbao’s 2-0 win over Villarreal. Bilbao is yet to lose in 11 games in all competitions. Scroll down to watch Inaki Williams brace.
Inaki Williams with a great finish for his second goal against Fenerbahçe 🇬🇭pic.twitter.com/ep2Ts5JnzZ
— Citi Sports (@CitiSportsGHA) December 11, 2024
Inaki Williams (30) scores his 3rd Europa League goal of the season to give Athletic Club the early 1-0 lead away from home against Fenerbahce. ⚽️🇬🇭
Gorka Guruzeta (28) takes advantage of the mistake and lays it off for his 2nd Europa League assist. 🪄🇪🇸pic.twitter.com/KTFFHATYbb
— LaLigaExtra (@LaLigaExtra) December 11, 2024
