CD Derio 0–3 Athletic Club
International Club Friendly – Pre‑Season
Date: 16 July 2026 | Kick‑off: 01:30 (local)

Match Overview

Athletic Club began their pre‑season tour in style with a commanding 3‑0 win over local lower‑league side CD Derio at the Polideportivo de Derio. The Basque giants, preparing for the upcoming La Liga campaign, fielded a mix of senior stars and academy prospects and controlled the game from start to finish.

Key Moments

• 12′ – Goal. Asier Villalibre opened the scoring with a powerful header from a corner delivered by Óscar de Marcos.
• 34′ – Goal. Young winger Nico Serrano doubled the lead with a solo run from halfway, rounding the goalkeeper before slotting home.
• 67′ – Goal. Substitute Gorka Guruzeta finished off a flowing team move, tapping in from close range after a cross from Iñigo Lekue.

Tactical Approach

Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde used the match to test a high‑press system and fluid attacking rotations. Derio, competing in the Tercera División RFEF, defended deep and rarely threatened, managing just one shot on target. Athletic’s superior fitness and technical quality were evident, as they racked up 22 attempts and 68% possession.

Standout Performances

• Nico Serrano – The young attacker was a constant menace, scoring one and assisting another.
• Dani Vivian – Solid at the back, winning every aerial duel and distributing calmly from defence.

What’s Next

Athletic Club’s pre‑season schedule continues with a training camp in Austria next week, followed by friendlies against SV Ried and SC Freiburg. For CD Derio, the defeat serves as valuable preparation for their league campaign in the fourth tier.

Attendance: 2,500 (sold out)