Almería falls short to Athletic Bilbao in narrow 1-0 victory after set piece advantage

**Almería Falls Short to Athletic Bilbao in Narrow 1-0 Victory After Set Piece Advantage**

In a pulsating encounter at the Estadio Vicente Calderón on Saturday, Almería faced off against Athletic Bilbao in what was expected to be a tight match given both teams' recent form and star players. However, it turned out to be a narrow affair with the visitors securing a crucial win.

The game began with both sides displaying their attacking prowess, but the opening half saw neither side able to break through the opposition's defense. The first half ended in a scoreless draw, leaving the two teams tied at zero goals apiece.

As the second half progressed, the pressure mounted for Almería as Athletic Bilbao continued to dominate possession and create opportunities. It was not until the 68th minute that the deadlock was broken. A well-taken goal from Athletic Bilbao's substitute forward sent the home team into a state of shock.

Despite the setback, Almería did manage to force extra time, giving them a chance to salvage some pride. In added time, the hosts were awarded a penalty kick after a foul by goalkeeper Miguel Ángel García. Despite his best efforts, the penalty was saved by Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Iker Casillas, ensuring the final score remained 1-0 in favor of the visitors.

The result was a significant blow to Almería's hopes of securing promotion to La Liga this season. While they maintained their position in the table, the narrow defeat leaves them vulnerable to relegation if they fail to improve further.

This victory for Athletic Bilbao also showcased their resilience and ability to capitalize on set pieces, which have been a key part of their strategy throughout the season. The team's manager, Unai Emery, praised his squad's performance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and staying competitive even when facing tough opponents.

For Almería, the loss serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead. They will need to work hard to regain their form and bounce back quickly from this setback. As they look ahead to the remaining matches of the season, they must remain focused on their objectives and continue to push towards the top of the table.