Athletic Bilbao B and Deportivo La Coruna B shared the points in a 2-2 draw in their Primera División RFEF Group 1 clash at the Lezama training ground on Sunday. The match was a showcase of attacking football from two reserve sides eager to impress their first-team managers.

Match Overview

Deportivo La Coruna B took the lead in the 18th minute when Iago López produced a moment of magic, dribbling past two defenders before curling the ball into the bottom corner. Athletic Bilbao B pushed for an equaliser and got it in the 39th minute when Aritz Onaindia tapped in from close range after a goalmouth scramble. The visitors restored their advantage in the 55th minute from the penalty spot, Iago López sending the goalkeeper the wrong way. But Athletic's persistence paid off in the 72nd minute when substitute Iker Areso powered a header into the net from a corner. Neither side could find a winner in the closing stages.

Key Moments

• 18' – Goal (Deportivo): Iago López scored a brilliant solo effort.
• 39' – Goal (Athletic): Aritz Onaindia equalised from close range.
• 55' – Goal (Deportivo): Iago López converted a penalty after a foul in the box.
• 72' – Goal (Athletic): Iker Areso headed in a corner to make it 2-2.
• 88' – Chance: Deportivo's striker hit the post with a fierce drive.

Tactical Analysis

Athletic Bilbao B, true to the club's philosophy, played an aggressive high-pressing 4-3-3, looking to dominate possession and create overloads on the wings. Deportivo La Coruna B set up in a 4-2-3-1, sitting deeper and looking to counter-attack at speed. The game was a classic clash of styles, with Athletic enjoying 62% possession but Deportivo looking dangerous every time they broke forward. Both managers made attacking substitutions in the second half, which contributed to the open nature of the final 20 minutes. Defensively, both teams showed vulnerabilities that their coaches will want to address.

Standout Performers

• Iago López (Deportivo): Scored twice and was a constant threat with his dribbling.
• Aritz Onaindia (Athletic): Worked tirelessly and got his reward with the first goal.
• Iker Areso (Athletic): Made a big impact as a substitute, scoring the equaliser.
• Diego Villares (Deportivo): Controlled the midfield and provided the assist for the penalty.

League Table Impact

Both teams remain in mid-table in Primera División RFEF Group 1. Athletic Bilbao B sit in 10th place, while Deportivo La Coruna B are 12th. With the reserve teams unable to be promoted, the focus is on player development, but both sides will be keen to climb the standings for pride and momentum.

What's Next

Athletic Bilbao B travel to face Racing de Santander B next Sunday, while Deportivo La Coruna B host Real Oviedo Vetusta. Both will be looking for a return to winning ways.