Jon Gorrotxategi’s first derby for Real Sociedad ended in glory as his 92nd-minute goal sealed a wild 3–2 win over Athletic Club in San Sebastián — the first time in 178 Basque derbies that the decisive goal came in added time.
In torrential rain at the Reale Arena, Real Sociedad’s academy graduate smashed home from close range after a frantic scramble, sparking euphoric celebrations and fireworks above the Bay of Biscay. “I hit it with my soul,” said Gorrotxategi, whose strike gave new coach Sergi Francisco a crucial win after a difficult run.
The drama began earlier when Ander Barrenetxea, injured moments before, limped back on to the pitch and immediately crossed for Brais Méndez to score the opener just eight seconds later. Athletic equalised through Gorka Guruzeta, but Gonçalo Guedes restored La Real’s lead after the break. Robert Navarro, once of Real Sociedad, bundled in a second equaliser for Athletic before Gorrotxategi’s dramatic winner decided it.
The victory — Real Sociedad’s second consecutive league win — was described by local media as a “quake felt across Gipuzkoa”. Players and fans celebrated together long after the whistle, singing in unison as Francisco called it “a derby beyond all expectations”.
