Aritz Aduriz, Xabier Etxeita book place in Copa del Rey final for Athletic Bilbao

Athletic Bilbao are through to the Copa del Rey final after defeating Espanyol 2-0 at the Estadi Cornella-El Prat.

Goals from Aritz Aduriz and Xabier Etxeita ensured Athletic Bilbao's place in the final, following a 1-1 first-leg draw three weeks ago.

Aduriz opened the scoring in the 13th minute, directing the ball into the bottom corner from outside of the penalty area.

The lead was nearly doubled in the 28th minute, but Inaki Williams was unable to connect with Aduriz's cross. Christian Stuani was then denied by Athletic goalkeeper Iago Herrerin two minutes later.

Etxeita doubled the lead just before the break, heading into the bottom corner from close range.

Stuani shot narrowly over the bar and Espanyol finished the half having conceded two vital away goals.

With Espanyol needing to score three goals in the second half, they had to come out strongly. That was not the case though, as Aduriz created another Bilbao chance in the 48th minute but his low shot was wide of the left upright.

Espanyol's best chance of the match came on the hour mark, when substitute Felipe Caicedo's shot rebounded off the post and into the grateful arms of Iago.

Williams had a great chance to kill the tie off with twelve minutes remaining. Driving into the box, his shot went wide of the far post while Iker Muniain was left open in the box waiting for the pass.

Athletic Bilbao will play Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final on May 30.