During the sports event, moments of euphoria were experienced due to the advance to the final, although there were also clashes between the police and opposing fans. The crowd of supporters was one step away from the final amidst celebrations that stirred the spirits.
During the victory against Fenerbahçe, a controversial banner was displayed at Ibrox Stadium. Clashes between Scottish and Basque fans were expected, marked by political symbols such as flags calling for the release of political prisoners and their return to their homes.
The city vibrates with the joy of the fans. The local rivalry between the Scottish team and Celtic, which has a leftist inclination, is well known. Meanwhile, the advance to the semifinals sparked celebrations in the Basque streets, longing for a new championship.
The ultras of Rangers FC have displayed controversial messages, such as calls for "the union and defense of Europe" and Islamophobic remarks. In the bars, football is discussed before heading to San Mamés Stadium.
Clashes between the two fan bases go beyond sports. In Bilbao, Athletic flags are mixed with those of Palestine and the Ikurriña. Tension increased when the police allowed the simultaneous departure of both groups.
In the second half of the match, a new goal solidified the victory for the home team. Athletic Bilbao defeated Rangers FC in a match marked by incidents and subsequent arrests.
As is common, in Euskal Herria, national sentiment is expressed through antifascism, socialism, and independence, although cases of violence and racism in the stands have also been recorded. The atmosphere heated up after the match, with clashes that included police intervention. Preparations for the arrival of thousands of supporters in the city already hinted at possible disturbances.
The atmosphere before the match was marked by the massive presence of red-and-white shirts in the streets. The match ended with a penalty goal in stoppage time, unleashing the emotion of the supporters. The political history of the teams and the ideologies they represent have been a source of tension during these sports events.
