Fenerbahce falls to Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in Europa League

Türkiye's Fenerbahce faced a tough challenge in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, hosting Spain's Athletic Bilbao in a crucial sixth-round match to stay in contention for a top-8 finish.

Played at Fenerbahce's ulker Stadium and officiated by Bosnian referee Irfan Peljto, the match saw the visitors take control early. Athletic Bilbao secured a 2-0 victory, with goals in the 5th and 45th minutes, both by Inaki Williams.

ISTANBUL, TURKIYE - DECEMBER 11:Youssef En-Nesyri (L) of Fenerbahce in action against Alejandro Berenguer Remiro (R) of Athletic Bilbao during UEFA Europa League Group Stage week 6 football match between Fenerbahce and Athletic Bilbao at Ulker Stadium in Istanbul, Turkiye, on December 11, 2024. ( Oğuz Yeter - Anadolu Agency )

ISTANBUL, TURKIYE - DECEMBER 11: Alexander Djiku (R) Fenerbahce in action against Andoni Gorosabel Espinosa (L) of Athletic Bilbao during UEFA Europa League Group Stage week 6 football match between Fenerbahce and Athletic Bilbao at Ulker Stadium in Istanbul, Turkiye, on December 11, 2024. ( Oğuz Yeter - Anadolu Agency )

ISTANBUL, TURKIYE - DECEMBER 11:Youssef En-Nesyri of Fenerbahce in action during UEFA Europa League Group Stage week 6 football match between Fenerbahce and Athletic Bilbao at Ulker Stadium in Istanbul, Turkiye, on December 11, 2024. ( Oğuz Yeter - Anadolu Agency )

Meanwhile, Fenerbahce's Mert Muldur was sent off in the 68th minute after receiving his second yellow card, leaving him suspended for the next match against Lyon.

The frustration of Fenerbahce fans was palpable after Muldur's dismissal, with boos directed at Fenerbahce player Samet Akaydin and chants of "Management resign" and "Aziz Yıldırım" echoing throughout the stadium.

With the loss, Fenerbahce remains in 15th place in the Europa League standings, with 8 points.