Athletic lose 3-1 in Marseille in first test against European rivals

Athletic suffered their first preseason defeat, losing 3-1 in Marseille against Olympique, according to Mundo Deportivo. The French side, who also have a new manager this season, proved far more cohesive than the Basque club, who are still waiting for their three World Cup-winning players.

The hosts were clinical in both penalty areas. Ángel Gómez opened the scoring in the 10th minute, but Athletic levelled quickly: Sancet finished a fine move initiated by Hugo Rincón, Guruzeta and Iñaki Williams in the 34th. However, Paixao put Olympique ahead before the break (2-1).

The second half was less intense. Terzic made changes from the bench seeking a response, but without much success. Mmadi sealed it with a goal in the 86th after an individual play the Bilbao defence couldn't stop. A clear warning: the German coach has work to do to translate his ideas onto the pitch.