Athletic Bilbao defeated Chivas 2-0 in the first leg of the Tree of Gernika Trophy.

The winner will be decided in July next year, during the return visit to Mexico. A draw will be enough for Athletic to win the trophy. If they lose, it will go to penalties.

The trophy is not the most important thing. What will remain for a long time is the connection between Athletic Club and Chivas de Guadalajara, two teams with sporting philosophies that are loyal to their respective lands.

The relationship with the club led by Amaury Vergara is and will always be special. Chivas have Basque ties all over the place and their admiration for our club is evident. They were moved and thrilled when the captains laid down flowers next to Pichichi's bust.

On the pitch, things couldn't have gone better. The only player unavailable was Ander Herrera, who was out with a stomach bug.

The whole team had a good run-out and Athletic were back on form. It was clear from the start Alex Berenguer was on top of his game and he drilled in left-footed shot after being set up by Asier Villalibre in the 29th minute.

The no. 20, who was very active, had a chance to make it 2-0, but he was denied by Chivas goalkeeper Miguel Jiménez. The Mexican shotstopper also kept out a header from Yeray. At the other end, Julen Agirrezabala had a quiet night.

In the second half, Athletic continued to dominate. Oihan Sancet pulled off a brilliant piece of skill to set up Jon Morcillo, but a defender got in the way.

Oihan was in the mood and a minute later he scored a fantastic goal. Played through by Morcillo, the Athletic no.8 made some space for himself on the edge of the area before guiding a precise effort past Jimenez.