Jon Gorrotxategi’s stoppage-time strike sealed a thrilling 3-2 victory for Real Sociedad over Athletic Club in one of the most dramatic Basque derbies ever played. The 23-year-old academy product, making his derby debut, scuffed his first attempt before smashing in the rebound from close range in the 92nd minute to send the Reale Arena into chaos and secure Sociedad’s first stoppage-time win in the fixture’s long history.
The game had everything: torrential rain, five goals, fierce tackles, and raw emotion. Ander Barrenetxea opened the scoring in remarkable fashion after returning to the pitch injured and providing an assist within seconds. Athletic equalised through Gorka Guruzeta before Gonçalo Guedes restored Sociedad’s lead with a fine finish. A scrappy late goal from former Sociedad player Robert Navarro levelled it again at 2-2 before Gorrotxategi’s unforgettable winner.
The victory was vital for Real Sociedad, who had won just once in nine weeks and were drifting toward the relegation zone. Manager Sergi Francisco celebrated his first derby in charge with visible relief as his players and fans sang together long after the whistle.
“This goal came from the soul,” Gorrotxategi said. “It’s for the fans who never stopped believing. Something has clicked — we’re ready to fight again.”
