Copa del Rey and Athletic Club: So near yet so far

Athletic Club have one foot in the final of the Copa del Rey, after beating Atletico Madrid 1-0 in the first leg of the semifinals.

Athletic Club's record in the tournament of late has actually been phenomenal. Last year, they lost the semifinals to Osasuna, the year before they lost in the same stage to Valencia. In 2020/21, they lost to Barcelona in the final. 2019/20 was however the hardest, where they lost an all-Basque final to Real Sociedad.

This year they will be desparete to go all the way. Their home atmosphere, physical and aggressive style of play and their ability on the counter have made them consistent in knockout football.