Athletic Bilbao forward Inaki Williams is banking on his late Copa del Rey heroics to reset a frustrating season.
The Ghana international struck deep into added time to decide a tense quarter-final clash against Valencia, sealing a 2-1 victory.
The goal, assisted by his younger brother Nico, sent Bilbao through to the last four and snapped a long wait for a decisive moment.
It was only his third goal of the campaign after a run of 21 appearances that yielded little reward.
Williams admitted the strike carried extra meaning and could shift the narrative around his season.
“We deserved a moment of joy like this,” he said.
“The first goal that I can dedicate to my son. The season has been difficult, but what happened today could be a major turning point.”
The win came at a crucial time for Bilbao, who have struggled to find consistency in La Liga.
Head coach Ernesto Valverde has demanded greater end product from his attacking players, and this contribution arrived right on cue.
Williams will now look to build on the momentum as Bilbao turn their attention back to league duties against Levante on February 8.
