Raul Garcia gives Athletic Bilbao slim lead over Valencia in Europa League

Athletic Bilbao edged out fellow Spanish side Valencia 1-0 in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie tonight.

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Heavy rain made conditions difficult for both sides, but Bilbao were first to go close in the 10th minute through Markel Susaeta after a mazy run, with Mathew Ryan staying big and pushing the shot away.

Soon after it was 1-0 to the home side as Raul Garcia beat Ryan with a well-directed header from Benat's free kick.

Valencia responded well to going behind but they could not level before the break as Rodrigo failed to beat Iago Herrerin with a pair of chances.

Midway through the second half Bilbao went close to doubling their lead twice in a minute as first Aritz Aduriz was denied by Ryan before Sabin Merino shot wide.

Benat was next to test Ryan from a free kick as Valencia struggled to cause many problems, in the end doing well to lose by only one goal.

The return leg takes place a week today at the Mestalla.