Europa League: Williams shines as Athletic Bilbao edge past 10-Man Roma to secure final spot

Athletic Bilbao secured their place in the Europa League quarter-finals with a commanding victory over a 10-man Roma, thanks to a brace from Nico Williams.  

Trailing 2-1 from the first leg, the Spanish side took advantage of an early setback for Roma, as Mats Hummels saw red for a professional foul in the 11th minute.

Bilbao capitalized on their numerical advantage, with Williams leveling the tie just before halftime with a close-range finish.

Left-back Yuri Berchiche gave Bilbao the aggregate lead with a glancing header from a corner midway through the second half.

Williams then sealed the win in style, weaving through Roma’s defense before chipping the goalkeeper with eight minutes remaining.

The victory ensures Athletic Bilbao’s spot in the last eight, as they continue their impressive European campaign.

However, there were still some late nerves when Leandro Paredes thumped in a late penalty for Roma.

But Claudio Ranieri’s were unable to score again to force extra time, as Athletic held on to win 3-1 on the night and progress 4-3 on aggregate.

Athletic will face either Rangers or Fenerbahce in the last eight as they continue the journey they hope will end back at their home ground, San Mames, where this year’s final will be held.