Two crucial saves from Stole Dimitrievski and Julen Agirrezabalain, a shot off the post from each side, and in tribute to José Ángel Iribar the best possible homage. Vallecano and Athletic faced off with a goalless draw, both teams taking firm steps toward Europe by shaking off the negative spells that had gripped them.
Relating to
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24th day of LaLiga Santander in photos
Rayo needed a new spark in front of their home supporters after a month without a win. Facing a formidable Athletic side and the fatigue from a Copa del Rey semifinal loss, the match proved to be a double-edged sword. Ernesto Valverde’s squad was tasked with taking the first decisive step toward a response.
In a clash more intense than a showcase, Athletic aimed to assert control early. The team tried to provoke a reaction, with Lekue providing pace, Nico Williams driving intent, and Berenguer offering width, while Guruzeta unsettled the defense without converting his chances in the first half.
Rayo refused to back down. Andoni Iraola handed Trejo a supporting role behind Raúl de Tomás as the striker leading the line, with Camel positioned ahead in the standings. The danger originated from Isi, who crafted opportunities after a deflected strike, then set up a dangerous free kick that culminated in a post-stroke moment at Camel’s doorstep. Isi’s influence spread across both boxes before Dimitrievski produced a key stop, blocking Guruzeta on a near-post corner and denying Sancet’s follow-up when he found space to shoot.
The exchanges intensified as the match swung back and forth. Fran García pressed high, and Álvaro García unleashed a powerful shot from outside the area that seemed destined for the net until it found a defender’s leg, denying a certain goal. The contest stayed open as the teams traded chances in rapid succession.
Álvaro García forced a reaction, testing Agirrezabala who stood tall at the near post. The goalbound effort hit the keeper’s glove hard, a reminder of how fine the margins were on the night. The scoreline remained unbroken as the final whistle neared, with the decisive moments coming in the late stages.
In the end, Agirrezabala produced a decisive save eight minutes from time, gloving away a powerful strike from Álvaro that looked set to break the deadlock. The play advantage shifted again when a bold long-range effort from Nico Williams was repelled by the crossbar, depriving Athletic of a late winner and allowing the game to conclude in a stalemate. Athletic’s move forward had shown signs of life after a run of three defeats, but the breakthrough never materialized.
Álvaro García’s attempt to breach Agirrezabala’s goal left a mark on the night, underscoring the tight margins and the fine margins that defined the encounter.
Follow Rayo – Athletic live on LaLiga TV 2 on dial 55 on M+. pic.
— Football on Movistar Plus+ reported on the match that evening.
In the second half, neither side could seal victory. A sense of caution overshadowed ambition as both teams weighed risks. Mumin tried to break through with pace but his dribble lacked the necessary support, while Berenguer’s follow-up shot skimmed the post after Isi failed to convert a prior chance.
Vallecas saw persistent defending under rain-soaked skies as Íñigo Martínez returned to his best form, making crucial stops to deny danger from Mumin and keep the score level. The home fans urged Iraola’s players to seize the moment, but Trejo’s final contribution did not require a cross to bring a winner, and Raúl de Tomás added presence without breaking the deadlock.
When the game reached its climax, Iribar’s commemorative moment was marked by Agirrezabala’s late intervention, his glove flashing to deny a strong hit that would have altered the result. The same moment saw a sharp save on Nico Williams’ left-footed effort, and the game finished with the rememberance of a solid defensive display on both sides, a testament to the balance that defined the night.
Data sheet
0 – Vallecano Lightning: Dimitrievski; Balliu, Mumin, Lejeune, Fran Garcia; Isi, Óscar Valentín, Comesaña, Álvaro García; Trejo, Camel.
0 – Athletic Club: Agirrezabala; Lekue, De Marcos, Vivian, Iñigo Martínez, Yuri; Dani García, Zarraga; Nico Williams, Sancet, Berenguer; Guruzeta.
Referee: Mario Melero López. He cautioned Mumin (Rayo) in the 21st minute. In the 93rd minute, Sancet, who had a strong moment on Mumin, received a direct red card after a foul.
Attendance: 14,500 at the Vallecas stadium for the 24th LaLiga Santander day.