Athletic Bilbao vs. Real Sociedad 1:0: Berets and Lion masks

Curtain up for the 170th Basque Derby, Athletic Bilbao against Real Sociedad San Sebastián (1:0) on November 24, 2024 – Football trips to Athletic Bilbao live mainly from this game. 

The Basque football temple of San Mamés shone in a huge stadium choreography in red, white, and black. Of course, the masks of the Basque lion and the characteristic beret hats were not missing on the stands. 

Sixth against eighth, at first glance, it didn't sound like a "Match of the Week". But: It was the duel between two ambitious teams who both want to be back in Europe in 2025 and, since both are active in the Europa League, naturally have their sights set on the big final next year (May 21) in Bilbao. 

Before the match, Bilbao's currently injured Spanish national goalkeeper Unai Simon was awarded the Zamora Trophy, which has been awarded by the Spanish newspaper Marca since 1959, as the keeper in La Liga with the fewest goals conceded (2023/2024). 

Athletic Bilbao against Real Sociedad: "A healthy rivalry"

The author Dirk Segbers, who lives in Spain and explores the history of Athletic Bilbao in his book Aus Prinzip einzigartig (Publisher: DIE WERKSTATT, 2022), writes for event-breaks.com about the magic of the Basque Derby: "The relationship between the two clubs is very respectful, that's a bit different than with El Clasico with FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. You can sit in the stands at San Mamés wearing an opposing jersey without any problems. It’s a healthy rivalry. People see themselves as Basques and respect each other a lot.” 

Yes. The blocks of red-and-white striped jerseys were once again interrupted by blue-and-white striped shirts from San Sebastián. 

The deadlock was broken by Bilbao through Oihan Sancet with a header after 26 minutes. It was the fifth goal of the season for the midfielder, who had not played since November 3. 

Athletic was early on its way to its fourth consecutive home win in the derby at San Mamés, looking more confident with the ball and more composed than "La Real". “Every ball won is gold for us,” said Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde before the match. His team stuck to that and allowed very little. 

Athletic Bilbao against Real Sociedad San Sebastián – Historically, Bilbao has won 68 of the 170 games against "La Real," including three of the last four, with 59 victories for San Sebastián. 

That it ended this way was also due to Martin Zubimendi, who missed a huge chance for Real Sociedad to equalize in the 59th minute. 

Match-winner Sancet received a standing ovation from the fans at San Mamés after being substituted in the 70th minute, who were able to celebrate in the end. 

With the 1:0 win in the Basque Derby, the Spanish Cup winner moved up to 5th place. 

Before the match: Soak up the atmosphere on the "Pozas"

Are football trips to Athletic Club Bilbao “unique by principle”? “Yes,” believes Dirk Segbers, “it’s mainly due to the club's philosophy; they only rely on players from the region or those who were trained there. This is a concept that is unique worldwide, and it makes the club special. That’s something that doesn’t normally change. In Bilbao, you can literally feel it because the club has such a long tradition (since 1898, editor's note). In every bar, you’ll find scarves from Athletic, there’s nothing from Barca or Real. Living in Bilbao and not being a supporter of Athletic Club is almost unthinkable.”

Football trip tip: Stroll around and soak up the football atmosphere, which can best be done in Bilbao on Calle Licenciado Poza, known to locals as "Pozas." This street, leading from the stadium towards the city center, always has a great atmosphere before the matches. 

Basque Derby Athletic Bilbao against Real Sociedad: When is the return match?

Real Sociedad San Sebastián has home advantage on May 4, 2025 and will then have the chance to avenge the loss with the narrowest possible result.