Fenerbahce vs Athletic: Former Barcelona coach squeezes Jose Mourinho at home

Jose Mourinho failed to make home advantage count against Ernesto Valverde's men.

Fenerbahce vs Athletic: Former Barcelona coach squeezes Jose Mourinho at home

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 19:22 - 11.12.2024

Jose Mourinho and his Fenerbahce were no match for their visitors Athletic Club in the Europa League.

Former Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce faced a disappointing defeat at home against Athletic Club in the UEFA Europa League, with Ghanaian forward Inaki Williams emerging as the standout player. 

The match, held at Fenerbahce's Sukru Saracoglu Stadium, ended with a 2-0 victory for the visitors, an important win for Athletic and a tough setback for Mourinho's side.

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Match Highlights: Fenerbahce vs Athletic

Ghanaian forward Williams opened the scoring just five minutes into the match, converting a straightforward tap-in after an assist from Gorka Guruzeta. 

His second goal came just before halftime, where he struck an angled shot that hit the crossbar and deflected into the net, displaying his skill and positioning.

Inaki Williams celebrates one of his goals.

The home team struggled to respond effectively to Athletic's early lead. Their situation worsened in the 68th minute when defender Mert Muldur received a second yellow card, leaving Fenerbahce to play with ten men for the remainder of the match. 

This dismissal led to visible frustration among fans, who expressed their discontent with chants directed at the club's management.

Jose Mourinho lost to Ernesto Valverde in the battle of former LaLiga coaches. (Photo Credit: Fenerbahce/X)
Jose Mourinho lost to Ernesto Valverde in the battle of former LaLiga coaches. (Photo Credit: Fenerbahce/X)

Current Standings 

With this defeat, Fenerbahce sit 15th place in their Europa League table with only eight points from a possible 18, while Athletic climbed to the top of the group standings with 16 points from six matches, maintaining their unbeaten streak in the competition.

This match not only revealed Fenerbahce's difficulties under Mourinho but Athletic Club's impressive form under coach Ernesto Valverde, a former Barcelona manager. 

Nigeria's Bright Osayi-Samuel in action against Athletic Club.
Nigeria's Bright Osayi-Samuel in action against Athletic Club.

The outcome leaves Fenerbahce needing to regroup as they face challenges ahead in their campaign.