Athletic Bilbao coach backs Inaki Williams to score crucial goals

Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde has called on forward Iñaki Williams to build on his dramatic match-winning goal, stating the Black Stars striker must start "putting up numbers" to help the team achieve results during a challenging season.

Williams was the hero for Bilbao in their Copa del Rey quarter-final clash against Valencia, coming off the bench in the 70th minute to score a 96th-minute winner, with an assist from his brother Nico Williams. The goal secured a 2-1 victory and a place in the competition's semi-finals.

Speaking after the match, Valverde highlighted the emotional and practical importance of the goal for both the player and the team. "Imagine when you score at the end…and the emotional boost that gives you; we'd been looking for it from the beginning," the coach said.

He directly linked Williams' scoring form to the team's fortunes, adding, "Goals are always good for the forwards and especially for the team because we need those players to start putting up numbers so we can get results."

The victory provides a welcome boost for Athletic Bilbao, who have struggled for consistency in La Liga this season and currently sit 11th in the table.

For Iñaki Williams, the late strike represents a chance to reignite his campaign and justify his coach's faith as the club targets a Copa del Rey trophy to salvage their season.

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