Beñat settles it against Córdoba

Athletic Club saw off Córdoba CF 0-1 in the opening fixture of Liga BBVA matchday 33. A goal from Beñat Etxebarria in the second half proved the difference between the sides, handing victory to a Basque outfit that consolidate their hold on eighth place and put pressure on Málaga CF in the battle for seventh. Los blanquiverdes, who languish bottom of the table, remain unable to end their winless run.

The Estadio Municipal Nuevo Arcángel witnessed an exciting, frenetic first half that brought a constant succession of chances for both teams. Although Athletic controlled possession of the ball in the match’s early stages, Córdoba ratcheted up the pressure and began to cause the visitors difficulties with several openings. Florin Andone could have put the Andalusians ahead but was denied by a great save from Gorka Iraizoz, while the crossbar prevented Bebé from scoring directly from a corner. The Basques also had opportunities, with efforts from Beñat and Aritz Aduriz thwarted by excellent stops from keeper Juan Carlos.

Córdoba carved out a gilt-edged chance to score in the opening minutes of the second half, but Fidel Chaves could not apply the finishing touch in front of goal. And when a first opportunity of the period came Athletic’s way, they did take advantage. After 56 minutes, Beñat’s drive deflected off Deivid and ended up in the Córdoba net for 0-1 – a scoreline which, despite the hosts’ efforts to equalise, saw Athletic come away with their 13th win of the league season.