Sancet’s Hat-Trick Fuels Athletic’s Champions League Dream

Athletic Bilbao Extends Unbeaten Streak to 14 Games

Athletic Club continues its remarkable form in La Liga, securing a crucial 3-0 victory over Girona. The win extends their unbeaten streak to 14 matches, a feat not achieved since the legendary Athletic team of the 1980s. Ernesto Valverde’s squad now stands as one of the most consistent sides in Spanish football this season, strengthening their push for a Champions League spot.

Marca highlights how Athletic’s current form rivals their historic runs under Javier Clemente in the 1983-84 and 1984-85 seasons. Unlike the past, this team has secured more wins in their unbeaten stretch, making them one of the most dominant sides in modern Athletic history.

Sancet’s Hat-Trick Seals the Win

Oihan Sancet delivered an unforgettable performance at San Mamés, scoring all three goals in different styles. The Athletic star opened the scoring in the 40th minute with a well-taken penalty, awarded after a delayed VAR review for a foul on Jauregizar. Just before halftime, he doubled the lead with a precise header from an excellent cross by Berenguer. The final goal came in the closing moments, cementing his status as the man of the match.

Sport notes that Sancet’s goals not only secured three points but also highlighted his importance as the team’s top scorer this season. His ability to finish in various ways makes him a crucial asset in Athletic’s attacking force.

Defensive Stability and Key Performances

Athletic’s defense played a vital role in maintaining a clean sheet, with Yeray Álvarez and Enrique Francés making crucial interventions. Girona had their chances, but Athletic’s backline remained solid, denying key attempts from Van de Beek and Guruzeta. Meanwhile, De Marcos came close to adding another goal, but Girona’s goalkeeper Gazzaniga produced an excellent save.

AS highlights the performance of debutants Maroan and Endika Bujan. Maroan, a recent signing from Alavés, showed promise with his physicality and work rate, while Bujan, a young winger from the club’s academy, also had his first minutes in La Liga.

Athletic’s Champions League Aspirations

With this victory, Athletic strengthens its position in the top four, keeping their Champions League hopes alive. The team’s ability to balance defensive solidity with attacking efficiency has been key to their success. As they continue their impressive run, fans are starting to believe that this could be a historic season for the club.

The next few matches will be crucial in determining whether Athletic can maintain their momentum and secure a place among Europe’s elite next season.

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