MADRID: The inaugural match of the new LaLiga season commenced with a 1-1 draw at Athletic Club Bilbao's San Mames Stadium on Thursday evening.
Athletic's attacking midfielder, Oihan Sancet, scored the inaugural goal of the campaign with a precise shot from outside the box in the 27th minute, following a series of favorable exchanges by Getafe. However, Chrisantus Uche, who was making his debut in LaLiga, successfully blocked a goal with a header from a corner in the 64th minute.
Spain international Nico Williams was introduced into the Athletic team with just 20 minutes remaining, contributing to a few moments of brilliance, yet Getafe goalkeeper David Soria made several crucial saves, including one from Williams, which appeared destined for the top corner.
Girona, who had finished in third place in the previous season, will be satisfied with securing a point for their significantly altered team in their away fixture against Betis at the Benito Villamarin Stadium in Seville.
Marc Bartra scored the first goal for Betis in the fifth minute of the game following a corner, and the visiting team had the upper hand in possession of the ball.
Gabriel Misehouy equalized for Girona in the 72nd minute with a shot that found the top corner, just minutes after his debut.
The schedule for the remaining matches over the next four days includes FC Barcelona's visit to Valencia on Saturday and Real Madrid's appearance in Mallorca on Sunday night.
