La Liga·36·13 May, 05:00 pm
Espanyol break 2026 winless streak with 69th-minute opener and 90+2' clincher, leaving Athletic Club's European hopes in tatters.
This is an early post-match report. Analysis and sentiment may be revised as more data becomes available.
Espanyol secured a vital three points after a winless run in 2026, significantly boosting their hopes of avoiding relegation and bringing immense relief to the team and fans.
Athletic Club suffered a straightforward 0-2 defeat against a relegation-threatened side, severely damaging their aspirations for European qualification and leaving fans with a sense of emptiness.
T-scores relative to mean of 50
Possession
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The long-awaited breakthrough for Espanyol came in the 69th minute when Pere Milla found the back of the net. This goal was more than just a lead; it was a beacon of hope for a team that hadn't secured a victory in 2026 and was battling relegation. The home crowd erupted as Milla's strike shifted the momentum, providing a much-needed boost of confidence and setting the stage for a vital three points.
Espanyol held onto their slender lead, fending off Athletic Club's attempts to equalize, until deep into stoppage time. In the 90+2nd minute, Kike García delivered the decisive blow, scoring an insurance goal that cemented Espanyol's 2-0 victory. This late strike not only crushed Athletic Club's fading European aspirations but also brought immense relief and joy to the Espanyol faithful, confirming a crucial win after a period of immense pressure.
Athletic Club struggled to find any rhythm in their attack throughout the match. The absence of the injured Nico Williams was keenly felt, as they failed to break down Espanyol's resolute defense and create meaningful scoring opportunities. This 0-2 defeat is a significant setback for their ambitions of securing a European spot, pushing them further down the table in the final rounds of the season. Fans expressed deep disappointment, with some lamenting what they called their "worst season ever."
RCD Espanyol had been enduring a challenging season since their return to La Liga in 2024, particularly struggling in 2026 with no wins prior to this match. This victory, however, provides a much-needed lifeline, instilling confidence and relief among the squad and supporters as they fight to avoid relegation. For Athletic Club, their season has seen a dip in form after a strong start, with this loss further jeopardizing their European qualification hopes. Fans are growing increasingly frustrated with the team's inconsistent performances.
Pere Milla's goal, breaking the deadlock in the 69th minute, was pivotal for Espanyol. It provided a surge of confidence and energy to a team desperate for a win, igniting the home crowd. His composed finish momentarily lifted the immense pressure on the team, offering a tangible hope for victory that had been elusive for months.
Kike García's goal in stoppage time brought a definitive sense of relief to Espanyol supporters. With a narrow one-goal lead, the tension was palpable, but his late strike solidified the victory and ensured all three points. This goal was crucial in confirming their escape from a difficult period and underscored his importance to the team's attacking efforts.
Espanyol's immediate focus will be to build on this crucial victory and secure their La Liga status for next season. Maintaining this newfound confidence will be key in their remaining fixtures. Athletic Club, on the other hand, must regroup quickly to salvage their European ambitions. Addressing their attacking struggles and defensive inconsistencies will be paramount, with manager Edin Terzic facing a significant challenge in the season's final stretch.
SUBSTITUTES
Espanyol
Athletic Club
| # | Team | P | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 36 | +59 | 91 | |
| 2 | 35 | +37 | 77 | |
| 3 | 36 | +24 | 69 | |
| 4 | 36 | +21 |
66 |
| 5 | Real Betis | 36 | +12 | 57 |
| 6 | Celta de Vigo | 36 | +4 | 50 |
| 7 | Getafe | 36 | -6 | 48 |
| 8 | Real Sociedad | 35 | -1 | 44 |
| 9 | Athletic Club | 36 | -13 | 44 |
| 10 | Rayo Vallecano | 35 | -6 | 43 |
| 11 | Sevilla | 36 | -12 | 43 |
| 12 | Osasuna | 36 | -4 | 42 |
| 13 | Valencia | 35 | -12 | 42 |
| 14 | Espanyol | 36 | -13 | 42 |
| 15 | Deportivo Alavés | 36 | -12 | 40 |
| 16 | Elche | 36 | -9 | 39 |
| 17 | Mallorca | 36 | -11 | 39 |
| 18 | Levante | 36 | -15 | 39 |
| 19 | Girona | 35 | -15 | 39 |
| 20 | Real Oviedo | 35 | -28 | 29 |