The Defense Cracks At The Gates Of The Cup Semifinal

Athletic Club in Vilo: The Defense Cracks at the Doors of the Cup Semifinal

Valverde faces a defensive puzzle with crucial losses against Real Sociedad

Athletic Club finds itself at a worrying crossroads ahead of the crucial first leg of the Copa del Rey Mapfre semifinals against Real Sociedad. The red and white infirmary seems to give no respite, and the defense, the fundamental pillar of the team, is presented as the main focus of attention for coach Ernesto Valverde. The possible absence of Viviancenter back from Gasteiz, due to a muscle injury that has kept him off the field in the last four games, adds a dose of uncertainty to the lineup.

The loss of Vivian, who could not participate in the matches against Sporting de Portugal, Real Sociedad, Valencia and Levante, leaves Valverde with a bleak outlook in the defense axis. If the center back fails to recover in time, Athletic would only have one first team center back available: Aymeric Laporte. The situation worsens if we consider that Walls must serve the second and last match of his suspension after being sent off against Cultural Leonesa, while Yeray He remains disqualified by UEFA until April 2.

Laporte, despite physical ailments, has shown his commitment and quality. The Frenchman played for an hour at Mestalla, being substituted on medical recommendation, and played the full game against Levante last Sunday, returning after almost two months out due to an injury suffered on December 6 against Atlético in San Mamés. Given this scenario, the most viable option to accompany Laporte in central defense would be Montrealwho already demonstrated solvency in his debut as a lion at Mestalla, offering an outstanding performance despite being a center back for the reserve team.

The outlook does not improve with the situation of Alex Berenguer. The winger has become a serious doubt for the semi-final match. The traumatic arthritis he suffers from in the first toe of his right foot, the one he uses to hit the ball, has prevented him from playing the last two games. His absence would represent a hard blow for the Bilbao attack, given its importance in the imbalance and the generation of play.

The team suffered another physical setback last Sunday with the injury of Yuri Berchiche. The full-back, one of the fittest players of the season, had to leave the field in the 30th minute due to muscle discomfort, and was replaced by Adama. The Zarautz's anger was palpable, aware of the importance of this moment in the season, with the fight for the Cup final and the need to climb up positions in the league. Added to these absences are those of long duration Egiluz, meadows and Maroanwho continue to recover from their respective ailments.

However, not everything is bad news in Lezama. Yesterday's training session brought with it a glimmer of hope with the reinstatement of Oihan Sancet. The playmaker worked with his teammates for the first time after suffering a muscle ailment on January 28 against the Lisbon team. Sancet, who was one of the team's most outstanding players before his injury, missed three games: two in the League against Real Sociedad and Levante, and the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey Mapfre against Valencia. The unknown now lies in whether the Navarrese will be available to Valverde for the match against the Txuri Urdin, or if it is still too early for his return to the squad.

Defensive fragility and attacking losses pose a considerable challenge for Athletic Club. Valverde's ability to manage the squad and find creative solutions will be key to facing the demanding Cup semi-final tie and keeping the team's aspirations alive in the knockout competition. The expectant red and white fans trust in the strength and fighting spirit of their players to overcome this adversity.

The 2026 season is witnessing an Athletic Club that, despite the difficulties, demonstrates remarkable resilience. The recent streak of two consecutive league wins, as the chronicles point out, is an indication of the team's ability to overcome obstacles. The figure of Gorka Guruzetawho seems to be in exceptional form at the moment, stands as one of the offensive pillars, contributing goals and dynamism to the rojiblanco attack. His understanding with the rest of his teammates and his sense of goal will be fundamental in the upcoming matches.

The duel against Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey will not only test the depth of Athletic's squad, but also its ability to adapt to circumstances. The management of the minutes of the affected players and the possible emergence of young talents from the reserve team will be aspects to follow closely. The Copa del Rey always holds surprises, and Athletic, with its history and its fans, will seek to write a new chapter of glory in this edition.

Valverde's strategy will be crucial. Will he opt for a more conservative approach to ensure defensive solidity, or will he seek to impose his style of play from the start? Real Sociedad, for its part, arrives with high morale and a consolidated team, which predicts a high-voltage tactical confrontation. The Cup semi-final is presented as a golden opportunity for both teams, and Athletic Club, despite the losses, trusts in its cup-winning DNA to surprise.

The Bilbao fans, always faithful, fervently await the opening whistle. The atmosphere in San Mamés promises to be electric, a factor that will undoubtedly work in Athletic's favor. The excitement of reaching a new Cup final is palpable, and the team will seek to channel that energy to overcome adversity and fight for a title that excites an entire country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are Athletic Club's main casualties for the Cup semi-final?

The main concerns center on defense, with the possible absence of Vivian due to muscle injury. Besides, Walls serves sanction and Yeray He is disqualified by UEFA.

Who could accompany Laporte in the center of defense?

Given the losses, Montrealfrom the reserve team, is emerging as the most likely option to form a centre-back pairing with Aymeric Laporte.

Is there any good news regarding recoveries?

Yeah, Oihan Sancet He has returned to training with the group after his muscle injury, and there is hope that he can make the squad.

What other players have physical problems?

Alex Berenguer It is doubtful due to traumatic arthritis in the foot, and Yuri Berchiche He had to retire due to muscle discomfort.

How long has Yeray been disabled?

Yeray is disqualified by UEFA until April 2.

When was Laporte's last game played before his return?

Laporte suffered his injury on December 6 against Atlético in San Mamés.

What game did Monreal play as a starter on defense?

Monreal played as a center back in Mestalla, in a match he played like a lion.