Borja Ekiza – Athletic Bilbao (11/08/2012)

This is a magnificent European collector's item, originating from an electrifying confrontation between two historic football institutions. This match-issued (prepared for the match) jersey was assigned to the Spanish central defender Borja Ekiza for Athletic Bilbao during their home match against Olympique Lyonnais.

Match Context: Lyonnais Efficiency at San Mamés Cathedral

For this clash on matchday 4 of the Europa League group stage (2012-2013 season), the atmosphere in the Basque Country was electric. Led by Marcelo Bielsa, the Bilbao Lions fell victim to OL's efficiency, who held a comfortable lead at halftime with goals from Bafétimbi Gomis (22nd minute) and Yoann Gourcuff (45th+1 minute). After the break, Athletic rallied: Ander Herrera immediately reduced the deficit (48th minute) before Aritz Aduriz equalized from the penalty spot (55th minute). Just as the local fervor was pushing for an upset, Lyon's Alexandre Lacazette definitively put an end to the suspense (63rd minute), sealing the home team's defeat after an immense battle (2-3).

Borja Ekiza: The Basque Rock Forged in Lezama's Tough School

A rigorous central defender, strong in aerial duels, and possessing a very reliable sense of positioning, Borja Ekiza established himself as a valuable member of the Basque defense thanks to his grit and tactical discipline. He was a club player always ready to give his maximum to defend his institution's identity. Although number 23 remained in the stands for this intense match against Steed Malbranque's teammates, this official kit was meticulously prepared by Bilbao's kit management for the player's needs. It features the official competition patches as well as all the markings from that era. A superb European collector's item.