The Athletic Bilbao have qualified for the Europa League following their impressive run in the La Liga play-offs and have now moved on to the next step - the round of 16 against Ligue 1 side Le Havre. This is not only a significant milestone for Bilbao but also a chance for them to build momentum ahead of the season and potentially secure a spot in the Champions League.

Qualifying as Group Runner-Up

After a successful run in the Copa del Rey, Bilbao were crowned champions of the Spanish league with a 4-2 aggregate victory over Real Madrid at the San Siro in Italy. Their victory marked a major achievement that set the tone for the rest of the campaign.

This win was followed by a strong showing in the La Liga play-offs, where they defeated Real Sociedad in the semi-finals before eventually facing Valencia in the final. Despite being down to three points, they managed to claim a crucial victory against the La Liga leaders, which helped boost their confidence and morale.

Next Chapter Against Ligue 1 in Round of 16

Moving onto the next phase of the tournament, Bilbao will face off against Ligue 1 side Le Havre in the round of 16. The match will take place at the Stade de France, which is one of the most iconic venues in French football history. The stadium has hosted many memorable moments throughout its history, including matches between Real Madrid and Barcelona.

The match promises to be a high-pressure affair, with both teams likely to be full of energy and determined to prove themselves against their rivals. Bilbao will need to perform well in order to make it past the first leg and progress to the second legs, while Le Havre will look to capitalize on any opportunities presented to them.

In conclusion, the Athletic Bilbao's qualification for the Europa League is a testament to their hard work and determination. They have shown that they can compete at the highest level of European football and that they have the talent to succeed in this tournament. With a strong team behind them, they are well-positioned to continue their success in Europe and beyond.