Athletic Bilbao edged out fellow Spanish side Valencia 1-0 in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie tonight.
© Getty Images
Heavy rain made conditions difficult for both sides, but Bilbao were first to go close in the 10th minute through Markel Susaeta after a mazy run, with Mathew Ryan staying big and pushing the shot away.
Soon after it was 1-0 to the home side as Raul Garcia beat Ryan with a well-directed header from Benat's free kick.
Valencia responded well to going behind but they could not level before the break as Rodrigo failed to beat Iago Herrerin with a pair of chances.
Midway through the second half Bilbao went close to doubling their lead twice in a minute as first Aritz Aduriz was denied by Ryan before Sabin Merino shot wide.
Benat was next to test Ryan from a free kick as Valencia struggled to cause many problems, in the end doing well to lose by only one goal.
The return leg takes place a week today at the Mestalla.
Pascal Lemesre
