Defender Yuri Berchiche was a important piece for Athletic Bilbao in their LaLiga clash against Atletico Madrid this weekend. Reuters distributed images capturing his duel with South Korean international Lee Kang-in during the match held at San Mames on Saturday, September 5.
The fixture, corresponding to the fourth matchday of the competition, ended in a one-all draw that leaves the Basque side in a strong position in the standings. Vincent West's photograph for the agency shows a moment of intense battling for the ball between Berchiche and Lee on the left flank. These kinds of defensive actions were key to containing such a potent attacking opponent.
How is Athletic's defense shaping up?
The solidity shown by the red-and-white backline is a cornerstone of the season's start. With Berchiche as an undisputed starter, the team has conceded only three goals in the first four league games. His partnership with Dani Vivian in the heart of defense is providing security for the side managed by Ernesto Valverde. The Basque coach has found a stable defensive base that allows him to project the play forward with guarantees.
Also, the continuity of Unai Simón in goal provides vital experience. The Spanish international goalkeeper is the last bastion of a line that appears compact and well-organized. Checking the full squad and their detailed data is possible on our team stats page.
What role did Berchiche play in the match?
The 36-year-old defender completed the full ninety minutes on the San Mames pitch. His work was not limited to containment, as he was also a constant option for initiating attacking play down his wing. According to competition data, Berchiche made over forty passes with a success rate above 85%. His experience and tactical knowledge were evident in his handling of a technical and speedy player like Lee Kang-in.
"It was a very demanding duel physically and mentally," could be said of the matchup between the two. The Korean footballer, one of Atletico's major signings this summer, found in Berchiche a difficult opponent to beat. The battle on that flank was one of the keys that balanced the encounter.
What is the team's immediate schedule?
After this commitment, Athletic's schedule offers no respite. The team now faces a week with a Copa del Rey match and a new league challenge away from home. The coaching staff's planning will be essential to manage the squad's efforts, especially in such a congested period of the calendar.
Fans can follow the exact order of the upcoming fixtures in our match calendar. The next league opponent will be Real Betis at the Benito Villamarín stadium, always a tough venue. Berchiche's continuity in the starting eleven seems assured for that match, given his physical condition and performance.
Valverde's squad list for the trip to Seville will be announced on Friday, one day before the match. Athletic Bilbao faces this challenge in high spirits after an undefeated start to the domestic season. The team will conclude the preparation week with a final training session at Lezama on Thursday morning.
