Inaki Williams Urges Athletic Bilbao to Bounce Back After Copa del Rey Setback
Ghana international Inaki Williams has called on Athletic Bilbao to quickly refocus on their La Liga campaign following their narrow defeat to Real Sociedad in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final.
Williams, who captained Bilbao and featured for 56 minutes at the Estadio de San Mamés, watched his side fall to a 1-0 loss after Benat Turrientes struck in the second half to hand Sociedad a crucial away advantage. The first half had ended goalless, with both teams failing to convert their chances in a tightly contested encounter.
Despite the setback, the Black Stars forward stressed the importance of regaining momentum in the league, urging his teammates to rediscover their confidence and consistency.
“We will focus on the league. The best thing we can do is regain confidence and get three points in the league. We must be a team for 90 minutes, not just 45. We have to press and play in the opponent’s half,” Williams said.
Athletic Bilbao will have the opportunity to respond in the return leg, scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the Estadio Municipal de Anoeta, where they will look to overturn the deficit and secure a place in the final.
Williams has been a key figure for Bilbao this season, making 23 appearances across all competitions, contributing two goals and two assists, and providing leadership as club captain.
With the season entering a decisive phase, the 31-year-old’s message underlines Bilbao’s determination to remain competitive both domestically and in the cup as they chase success on multiple fronts.
