Nico Williams Scores Twice as Athletic Club Dominates Valladolid in La Liga

Athletic Club has extended their unbeaten run in LaLiga to an impressive 16 matches, the longest current streak in the league, following a resounding 7-1 triumph over struggling Real Valladolid. This victory has propelled them to within six points of the top spot.

With a glimmer of hope for their first league title in 41 years, Athletic will certainly have enjoyed the encounter against the last-placed Valladolid.

Lions striker Oihan Sancet, in peak form, issued an early warning by blasting a shot over the bar. It took just 11 minutes for Athletic to seize the lead, with Nico Williams weaving his way into the box and setting up Mikel Jauregizar, who finished neatly into the bottom corner.

A magnificent save from Karl Hein thwarted Jauregizar’s bid for a second goal shortly after, as his long-range effort looked destined for the top corner. Athletic supporters held their breath when Mamadou Sylla’s attempt was narrowly ruled offside as Valladolid sought to respond, but the Lions’ intensity remained unmatched. They soon doubled their advantage, with Nico Williams weaving through several defenders before nonchalantly guiding the ball past Hein.

The atmosphere at San Mamés was electric, and the first half culminated in a quick-fire brace of goals.

First, winter signing Maroan Sannadi outmanoeuvred his marker to connect with a cross from Yuri Berchiche, before Sancet volleyed home for 4-0—his sixth league goal in just four matches.

Valladolid emerged with renewed vigour after the break, and Sylla finally found the net, muscling past two defenders to slot the ball past Unai Simon.

This, however, would only serve as a consolation, as Stanko Juric received a second yellow card for a foul on Sancet, allowing the home side to regain their composure.

Nico Williams made it two for the day in style, sidestepping a defender before curling in a stunning effort to the top corner.

It wasn’t long before Gorka Guruzeta added his name to the scoresheet, tapping in from Inaki Williams’ low cross.

Inaki Williams then put the icing on the cake with a composed finish, wrapping up a memorable afternoon for the home supporters.

In stark contrast, it was a difficult day for newly appointed Valladolid manager Alvaro Rubio, who will certainly have brighter days ahead, but will need to act swiftly to lift his team from the foot of LaLiga.

Flashcore Man of the Match: Nico Williams (Athletic Club)