Ludogorets played strongly but lost to Athletic

Ludogorets played decently and very good, but lost to Athletic Bilbao – 1:2 in their fourth match in the main phase of the Europa League. 20-year-old Brazilian Erick Marcus opened the scoring, but in the second half, just within a minute - between the 73rd and 74th, the Lions, who are 8-time champions of Spain and 24-time winners of the Cup of the king and possess world-class players, have come full circle.

In the 7th minute, the Spanish footballer in Ludogorets Son tried to make it difficult for the goalkeeper of Bilbao from a foul, but he did not hit the goal. The Lions responded with a hit by Ignacy Williams, also with an out. The Basque captain made a big mistake after failing to clear the ball from a clear position following a cross from a corner. The Eagles scored in the 20th minute.

Then, after a corner kick, the ball hit the volley of Erick Marcus, who with an impressive shot with his left foot did not leave Aguirrezabala any chances. Initially, the goal was canceled due to an offside, but then it was seen that there was none and the goal remained. This was the first goal for Ludogorets in the main part of the Europa League for the season.

In the 35th minute, Alex Berenger shot hard, but Sergio Padt saved. Right after that, Rick scored a second goal for Ludogorets, which was canceled due to an offside by the assistant in the case, Rwan Cruz. Four minutes later, Kwadwo Duah stole the ball from a Basque player and advanced. However, instead of passing to the uncovered Rick or Rwan, he shoots high over the goal. At the end of the first part, the two teams exchanged one danger each. First, Berenger fired powerfully from a free-kick, with Padt saving. On the ensuing counter, Duah found Erick Marcus, whose shot this time missed the net.

In the 50th minute, Kwadwo Duah fought off Danny Vivian and shot from a difficult position, but goalkeeper Aguirresabala came forward to save. Athletic Bilbao responded with a fine strike from Yuri Berchiche, but once again Padt was on top. After an hour, Kwadwo Duah found himself in a goal-scoring position, but his shot was headed away by defender Aitor Paredes.

Athletic Bilbao stepped up and equalized in the 73rd minute. Then, after a mistake in the delivery, the ball reached Ignacy Williams, who took over and eliminated Dinis Almeida and with an excellent shot left Padt no chance - 1:1. The complete turnaround was a fact after just a few seconds. Substitute Nico Serrano was accurate, and with a very nice shot he gave his team the lead. Three minutes before the end, Ander Herrera, who played for Manchester United and PSG, tried Padt's reflex, but he made a masterful save.

Finally, Rusev had a good chance, but the winger was unable to equalize.