Athletic Club Women and RCD Espanyol Women Share Spoils in 2-2 Liga F Draw

Athletic Club Women and RCD Espanyol Women played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in the Spanish Primera División de la Liga de Fútbol Femenino, commonly known as Liga F, on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at San Mamés. The match had everything: early goals, a tactical battle in midfield, and a late equaliser that rescued a point for the visitors. It was a result that left both teams with mixed feelings, as Athletic twice led but could not hold on for the win.

Athletic Club Women started brightly in front of their home crowd, pressing high and moving the ball quickly through the thirds. Espanyol Women, known for their resilience, absorbed the early pressure and grew into the contest. The 18:00 kick-off produced a fast, physical, and technically impressive display that showcased the growing quality of Liga F.

Match Overview

Athletic took the lead in the 14th minute through Clara Pinedo, who finished off a well-worked move down the left. Espanyol responded well and equalised in the 34th minute when Ainhoa Marín found space at the edge of the box and fired low into the corner. The teams went into half-time level, but Athletic restored their advantage early in the second half through Ane Azkona, who converted a cross from the right.

For much of the second period, Athletic looked likely to see out the win. They controlled possession, won second balls, and limited Espanyol’s chances. But Espanyol never stopped believing, and in the 88th minute Cristina Baudet struck to make it 2-2. The late goal silenced the home crowd and capped a determined away performance.

Key Moments

• 14th minute — Athletic take the lead: Clara Pinedo arrived late in the box and guided a first-time shot past the Espanyol goalkeeper.
• 34th minute — Espanyol equalise: Ainhoa Marín cut inside from the right and curled a left-footed effort into the far corner.
• 52nd minute — Athletic regain the lead: Ane Azkona rose highest at the back post to head home a deep cross.
• 73rd minute — Athletic chance: A free-kick from just outside the box clipped the top of the crossbar.
• 88th minute — Espanyol equalise: Cristina Baudet pounced on a loose ball inside the area and stabbed it into the net for 2-2.

Tactical Story

Athletic Club Women set up in a 4-3-3 and looked to dominate the midfield with quick combinations and overlapping full-backs. Their first goal came from exactly that pattern: patient build-up, a switch of play, and a late run into the box. However, Espanyol’s 4-4-2 mid-block frustrated Athletic for long spells, especially in the second half when the home side struggled to create clear chances after taking the lead.

Espanyol’s game plan was built on defensive discipline and fast transitions. They targeted the space behind Athletic’s advanced full-backs and were rewarded with two well-taken goals. The late equaliser came from a moment of persistence rather than a carefully constructed move, but it was no less deserved. Athletic will rue their inability to manage the final minutes, while Espanyol will take confidence from twice coming from behind.

Standout Players

Clara Pinedo (Athletic Club Women): She opened the scoring with a composed finish and was a constant threat with her movement between the lines.

Ane Azkona (Athletic Club Women): Her header gave Athletic the lead for the second time, and she led the press from the front with energy.

Ainhoa Marín (RCD Espanyol Women): Espanyol’s first goal was a moment of individual quality, and she remained dangerous on the counter throughout.

Cristina Baudet (RCD Espanyol Women): The late equaliser was just reward for a tireless performance in midfield and attack.

Liga F Table Impact

The draw leaves both teams with plenty to play for in Liga F. Athletic Club Women remain in the upper half of the table and will be frustrated to drop two points at home, especially after leading twice. RCD Espanyol Women, meanwhile, will view the comeback as a valuable point on the road and a sign of their growing competitiveness. In a league where every point matters, this 2-2 draw could prove important for both clubs as the season progresses.