Inaki, Nico Williams Risk Going Trophyless After Athletic Bilbao Crash Out of Copa Del Rey

Inaki, Nico Williams Risk Going Trophyless After Athletic Bilbao Crash Out of Copa Del Rey

  • Inaki Williams and his younger sibling Nico suffered yet another heartbreak after Athletic Bilbao crashed out of the Copa del Rey
  • After their elimination in the Spanish Super Cup, the Williams brothers suffered further misery in the competition they won last term
  • They risk going trophy-less this season, with their chances of winning either La Liga or the Europa League looking slim

PAY ATTENTION: NOW You can COMMENT on our articles on the YEN website! Learn how to get started.

The Williams brothers, Inaki and Nico, face the possibility of a trophy-less season after Athletic Bilbao's elimination from the Copa del Rey on Thursday evening.

Despite a valiant effort that saw Nico find the back of the net, the reigning champions fell to Osasuna in a pulsating five-goal encounter at the Estadio San Mames.

Inaki and Nico Williams are out of the Copa del Rey after Osasuna beat Athletic Bilbao.
Inaki and Nico Williams were powerless as Athletic Bilbao crashed out of the Copa del Rey. Photo by Ion Alcoba Beitia.
Source: Getty Images

Inaki, Nico crash out of Copa del Rey

The match began with promise for Bilbao as Inaki Williams came close to opening the scoring on two occasions.

His first chance, a low shot inside the six-yard box, was comfortably saved by Osasuna's Sergio Herrera.

Read also

Hearts of Oak sign highly rated midfielder Seth Osei who was on Kotoko's radar

Minutes later, the Black Stars forward forced another superb stop from the goalkeeper. However, Bilbao's inability to capitalise on these early opportunities proved costly.

Osasuna seized the initiative in the 40th minute when Aimar Oroz broke the deadlock with a precise effort that ricocheted off the inside of the post.

The visitors doubled their lead just three minutes later when Ante Budimir calmly converted a penalty following Julen Agirrezabala's foul in the area.

Ernesto Valverde’s side responded before the halftime whistle, with Nico Williams slotting home to reduce the deficit, per Ghanasoccernet.

Buoyed by the goal, Bilbao started the second half on the front foot.

Their persistence paid off in the 55th minute when Oscar de Marcos fired in the equaliser, sending the home crowd into raptures.

Despite the resurgence, Bilbao’s joy was short-lived. Osasuna restored their advantage when Budimir reacted quickest to a rebound, slotting in the decisive goal to seal the victory.

Read also

Mohammed Salisu scores in Monaco's surprise French Cup defeat to Stade Reims

The result ensured Osasuna's progression to the quarterfinals while abruptly ending Bilbao’s title defence, as noted. by Football Espana.

Inaki, Nico risk going trophy-less

With their Copa del Rey campaign over, Athletic must shift their focus to other competitions.

Their chances of clinching the La Liga title remain slim, given the consistency of Spain’s elite clubs.

However, the Europa League presents a glimmer of hope.

Bilbao impressed in the league phase of the competition, amassing 16 points out of a possible 18, and could position themselves as strong contenders in the knockout rounds.

While the Williams brothers have showcased flashes of brilliance this season, the challenge now lies in channelling their efforts toward salvaging silverware from what remains of the campaign.

Why Inaki Williams struggles with Black Stars

In an earlier report, YEN.com.gh shared Athletic Bilbao legend Raul Garcia's perspective on Inaki Williams’ challenges with the Ghanaian national team.

Read also

What Real Madrid President Florentino Perez told star player after Barcelona thrashing

Garcia attributed Williams' struggles to his upbringing in Spain, highlighting the cultural and tactical differences.

The forward, who was born and raised in the Basque region, switched allegiance to Ghana in 2022 and made his debut in an international friendly against Brazil.

New feature: Сheck out news that is picked for YOU ➡️ click on “Recommended for you” and enjoy!

Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe avatar

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe (Sports Editor) Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a CAF-accredited journalist with over five years of experience in digital journalism. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Integrated Rural Arts and Industry (2016). Godwin's career includes covering the 2023 AFCON and grassroots competitions within Ghana. He has also served as a Presenter at VNTV, a Sports Analyst at Obonu FM, and a Football Writer for a myriad of sports websites. He joined Yen.com.gh in 2024 to cover sports. Email: godwin.tagoe@yen.com.gh.