Inaki Williams eyes major season turning point after inspiring Athletic Bilbaoâ??s victory over Valencia

Ghana international Inaki Williams is seeking for a major season turn around after inspiring Athletic Bilbao to victory over Valencia in the Spanish Copa del Rey.

The Black Stars forward has struggled to make a meaningful impact in the current campaign, scoring just two goals in 21 appearances across competition.

Williams emerged as the hero on Wednesday night for the San Mames club, scoring a last-gasp goal to inspire his outfit to a crucial victory.

Having ended his goal drought, the 31-year-old Ghanaian attacker is aiming to maintain momentum for the remainder of the campaign.

“We deserved a moment of joy like this — the players, the fans, and the coaching staff. The first goal that I can dedicate to my son. The season has been difficult, but what happened today could be a major turning point,” he said.

Williams came off the bench to score a dramatic 96th-minute winner as Athletic Club beat Valencia 2-1 to book their place in the Copa del Rey semi-finals at Mestalla.

The 31-year-old latched onto a low cross from his brother Nico and swept home from close range deep into stoppage time to silence the home crowd.

Athletic had earlier taken the lead in the 26th minute in bizarre fashion when Umar Sadiq diverted a cross into his own net under pressure inside the six-yard box. The Nigerian forward quickly made amends, climbing highest to head in a 35th-minute equaliser after good work from Hugo Duro on the flank.

The game remained finely poised, with both sides trading half-chances and Athletic missing a golden opportunity when Mikel Jauregizar saw his 75th‑minute penalty saved.

Valencia pushed for a late winner, introducing fresh legs in attack, but were caught on the break in the final seconds as Nico broke down the left and picked out Inaki for the decisive strike.

Athletic now turn their attention back to La Liga, where they host Levante at San Mames on Sunday, February 8.

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