Llorente fires Bilbao into decider

Spanish international striker Fernando Llorente fired Athletic Bilbao into the Europa League final with a late winning goal in last night’s semi-final second leg in the Basque Country.

The tie appeared to be heading for extra-time before Llorente’s 88th-minute winner put Bilbao within touching distance of a first continental trophy.

“This is incredible. No words can describe it. This group and these fans deserve it,” a delighted Llorente said.

The towering striker was the hero for the Basque club at the San Mames, creating their first two goals and volleying in the crucial third.

After Sporting fought back to win last week’s first leg in Lisbon 2-1, Markel Susaeta put the home side ahead in the 17th minute last night, Ricky van Wolfswinkel levelled for the Portuguese in the 44th minute but Ibai Gomez made it 2-1 in first-half added time.

ATHLETIC BILBAO: Iraizoz, Iraola, Javi Martinez, Amorebieta, Aurtenetxe, Ander Herrera (Inigo Perez 90), Iturraspe, Muniain (Ekiza 90), Susaeta, Llorente, Ibai (Toquero 90).

SPORTING: Rui Patricio, Joao Pereira, Anderson Polga, Xandao, Insua, Andre Martins (Carrillo 83), Schaars, Fernandez (Daniel Carrico 46), Bruno Pereirinha (Jeffren 63), van Wolfswinkel, Diego Capel.

Referee: Martin Atkinson (England).