Xavi referred to Barcelona’s narrow 1-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao as a “great triumph” as they held off a late attack to reclaim a nine-point lead heading into the Clasico the following weekend. Raphinha’s first-half goal at San Mames ultimately proved to be the game’s deciding factor, but it was just the beginning as Barcelona had to fend off significant late pressure. The hosts’ Raul Garcia had struck the post, while Alex Berenguer’s early shot on goal for Athletic started Athletic’s late barrage.
As Inaki Williams broke through and slammed home, Athletic felt they had rescued a thrilling draw. But, the goal was later overturned by a VAR review because Iker Muniain was found to have handled the ball in the build-up.
