Marcelino: The team played a high-level game, and the players gave their all for the victory.

Villarreal head coach Marcelino García Toral analyzed his team's key victory against Athletic Bilbao in the 31st round of La Liga, a match played at the San Mamés Stadium.

Marcelino García Toral said: "We played a high-level game. The first half was particularly outstanding, combining efficiency and intensity. In such a tough match, the team maintained a positive attitude throughout."

“I want to congratulate the whole team and all the players. They gave their all for this victory. San Mamés has always been a difficult away game for Villarreal, and they don’t have many wins there, so I want to thank the team for their hard work and dedication.”

"Efficiency often determines the outcome of a match. Today we demonstrated both efficient attacking play and a bit of luck. Especially after the 35th minute, the opponent created several chances, but we scored our second goal before the end of the first half to stabilize the situation."

"After the start of the second half, the opponent intensified their attack, but we maintained control of the game and even had opportunities to extend our lead through counter-attacks. Overall, we played a well-rounded game, demonstrating composure and efficiency, which was key to our ability to take these three points."

Finally, the Asturian coach expressed his positive attitude towards competing for third place in the league. He stated, "If we maintain today's mentality, we are fully capable of securing third place, but it will be by no means easy. The season is still ongoing, and maintaining consistency is crucial."

“Winning at this stadium is very meaningful, and our overall performance this season has been quite outstanding. I believe we are getting closer and closer to Champions League qualification, and competing for the title again is one of our goals. This would be historic, as the club has never won this honor before.”

Image source: Internet/Villarreal official website