Ghanaian forward equals 11-year Basque derby record

Ghanaian forward Inaki Williams scored a sensational brace for Athletic Club in the Basque derby against Real Sociedad to equal an 11-year record in the storied fixture. 

Williams struck in both halves, scoring his seventh and eighth goals in LaLiga this season to help Athletic Club to a 2-0 win over Real Sociedad which put a spanner in the works of their neighbours’ quest for a top-four place this season in LaLiga, and a place in the UEFA Champions League group stage next season. 

The Ghanian forward was in top shape for the tie, and ensured that Athletic Club secured vital three points and bragging rights with a performance that has put him alongside some heroes of the club and indeed the Basque derby. 

William’s brace meant that he became the first Athletic Club player to score a brace in the Basque derby in LaLiga since 2012 when Markel Susaeta scored twice in the fixture, which also ended in a 2-0 win over La Real. 

The Athletic Club forward has shown over time that he enjoys playing in the Basque derby. His two-goal contribution on Saturday took his total tally in the fixture to seven, making him the joint-most prolific player in the fixture this century. 

Williams joins Turkish midfielder Nihat Kahveci at the zenith of the scorers’ chart in the Basque Derby since 2000, with his seven goals equaling the Turkish maestro’s record. 

Kahveci played for Real Sociedad when he scored the seven goals in question, meaning that Williams is the first Athletic Club player to reach that mark in the 21st century, with club legend Inaki Williams coming a close second with six goals.

The Basque-born forward who recently switched international allegiance to Ghana has been of Athletic Club’s better players this season and leads the team for direct goal contributions, with his brother, Nico Williams, second on the list.