Athletic Club achieved victory in the Basque derby with a penalty that sealed its 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad in San Mamés, on November 1, 2026. The goal, scored by Álex Berenguer, occurred in the 45th minute after a foul by Nico Williams inside the area that was confirmed by the VAR. The final result closed matchday 11 of LaLiga with Athletic at the top of the table and Real in the relegation zone.
From the start the match showed the typical intensity of a Basque match. Iñaki Williams opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a header after a cross from his brother Nico. The goal became the eighth that the player has scored against Real in his career, which places him as the rival's top scorer in Basque matches. La Real responded shortly after, with Luka Sucic equalizing in the 31st minute. The Croatian striker, who had already scored his fourth goal of the season, finished with his left foot at the short post and goalkeeper Unai Simón could not stop him.
The second half witnessed a more balanced dominance. La Real increased possession and pressure, creating several dangerous chances. Oyarzabal and Barrenetxea showed their scoring ability, although they were unable to overcome Athletic's defense. The home team, for its part, continued with its offensive style of play, with Iñaki and Nico Williams playing in close coordination. Despite some disastrous crosses, the brothers' combination kept the pressure on Real's defense.
The decisive point came just before the break. In the 44th minute, Aramburu knocked down Nico Williams inside the area and the referee, after the intervention of the VAR, awarded a penalty to Athletic. Berenguer, who had started in the first half, appeared on the penalty line and converted without difficulty, putting his team ahead. La Real tried to react, but Athletic's defense, led by goalkeeper Alex Berenguer, remained calm and prevented the goal from becoming a tie.
With the victory, Athletic remains at the top of the table, while Real Sociedad approaches the relegation zone. The result also reinforces Athletic's position as one of the most competitive teams in the league this season. As for the next matchday, Athletic will continue seeking to consolidate its position, while Real Sociedad will have to adjust its strategy to avoid further losses in the table.