A few days ago, asked about my preference regarding Athletic’s opponent in the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey, my answer was clear: Barça in San Mamés. A choice with a certain risk, but one that promised excitement because of the history between both teams in the competition, and especially because of the very important factor of playing at home, which will surely lead to a united response from those fans to once again support the team. Because games aren’t just won on the field, or at least not in Athletic’s case. Now, seeing what I saw, I am very glad that I gave that answer and the draw ended up fulfilling the wish of many athletes.
It is not surprising, but again the red and white fans are back at 10 this Wednesday against the Catalan team. The temper started to heat up from early morning when around 4,000 people followed the flight home to the country live. Inaki Williams after Ghana was eliminated from the Africa Cup with Cameroon’s victory over Gambia, it was the most followed in the world. A madness typical of a fan who knows that their great star can give them another magical night in San Mamés.
Exactly around the Cathedral is the scene where success begins to work. Thousands of people came to greet the team bus in a concentration more typical of a final than a quarterfinal. The red flares that colored the streets of the town created a scenario close to hell for the rival, and on the contrary, a clear and clean sky for Athletic, knowing the importance of the arrival of the atmosphere plugged into rivalry. An environment that has moved inside the stadium where nothing can go wrong. Because more than football itself, the lions are always ahead of Barça thanks to a fan that never leaves the team alone at any time. 50,953 athletes who worked hard for more than two hours and did not leave their team despite the Wednesday night that ended up being extended.
It was another night to remember where once again there was a perfect union between fans and players that showed what makes Athletic so special. A night where it was clear that if both sides lined up in the same direction, this could be the year to lift the long-awaited cup again. Why not dream? Whatever happens, Athletic has the advantage. So much progress has been made thanks to a loyal fan base that will surely be great again in the semi-final against Atlético.
Source: La Verdad
I am Shawn Partain, a journalist and content creator working for the Today Times Live. I specialize in sports journalism, writing articles that cover major sporting events and news stories. With a passion for storytelling and an eye for detail, I strive to be accurate and insightful in my work.
