Ponferradina 1-0 Athletic Bilbao B
Spanish Primera División RFEF – 24 May 2026

Ponferradina claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao B at the Estadio El Toralín, a result that kept them firmly in the promotion race. A single first-half goal proved enough as the home side’s defence repelled everything the young Lions threw at them in the second half.

Match Report

The match began at a high tempo, with both sides eager to take control. Ponferradina struck early, scoring in the 8th minute. A long throw-in was flicked on by a forward, and the ball fell to Álvaro Martínez, who volleyed home from eight yards out. The goal settled the home side, who then focused on maintaining a compact shape and hitting on the counter.

Athletic Bilbao B, under the guidance of their coach, tried to build possession and work openings, but found Ponferradina’s defensive block difficult to break. The visitors’ best chance came in the 35th minute when a free-kick forced a diving save from the Ponferradina goalkeeper. The half ended with the home side still leading 1-0.

Second-Half Resilience

The second half saw Athletic B increase their pressure. They controlled the ball for long periods, moving it from side to side in search of gaps. The introduction of substitute Iker Muniain (not to be confused with the senior team star) gave them more creativity, but Ponferradina’s defenders made vital blocks and interceptions. The home goalkeeper was called into action on several occasions, producing a brilliant double save in the 72nd minute to preserve the lead.

As the match entered its final ten minutes, Athletic B pushed everyone forward, but Ponferradina held firm, with time-wasting and defensive headers clearing the danger. The final whistle sparked celebrations among the home fans, who recognised the importance of the three points.

Standings Impact

Ponferradina’s victory moved them into third place, level on points with second-placed team, keeping the promotion playoff race incredibly tight. Athletic Bilbao B remained in eighth place, still within reach of the top six, but this defeat ended a three-match unbeaten run. The result also extended Ponferradina’s home winning streak to five matches, underlining their strength at El Toralín.