Jon Gorrotxategi’s stoppage-time goal earned Real Sociedad a thrilling 3-2 victory over Athletic Club in a rain-soaked Basque derby full of chaos, emotion, and local pride.
The dramatic finish came after a frantic contest that swung back and forth — 1-0, 1-1, 2-1, 2-2 — before Gorrotxategi smashed home the winner deep into added time. The 23-year-old, making his first derby appearance, struck the decisive blow from close range after his initial effort was blocked, sealing a surreal and historic victory.
The match had all the hallmarks of a true Basque derby: fierce tackles, relentless energy, and a stadium united in passion. Real Sociedad, struggling in recent weeks, looked transformed from the moment they arrived at the Reale Arena, walking through a sea of fans and fireworks before kickoff.
Ander Barrenetxea opened the scoring in remarkable fashion despite being injured moments earlier, setting up Brais Méndez while barely able to walk. Gorka Guruzeta equalised for Athletic before Gonçalo Guedes restored Sociedad’s lead early in the second half. Robert Navarro, a former Sociedad player, bundled in an equaliser with 11 minutes left — setting up the late drama.
Then, in the 92nd minute, Gorrotxategi’s thunderous finish sent 37,000 fans into delirium. It was the first time in 178 Basque derbies that a winner had come in stoppage time.
For new coach Sergi Francisco, it was a defining night. “This was exactly how you’d want to write it,” he said. “The players fought with their souls.”
Real Sociedad’s players celebrated with their supporters after the final whistle, singing together under the rain — a perfect ending to a derby that, for once, truly had it all.
