Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde admits defeat to Osasuna is a blow to their European hopes.

The defeat in Pamplona on Thursday night sees Osasuna move into seventh ahead of Los Leones.

“It was a crucial game. It was up to us and now it's Osasuna who are in seventh place and have the advantage," Valverde said post-match. “It's a tough defeat and we've taken a step backwards."

Athletic must now win their remaining two fixtures to have a chance of qualifying for Europe.

He said: “When you have a chance like this and you lose, of course it's disappointing. It's not going to be easy for anyone to get the six points that are left. We're going to focus on us, and on the fact that we have to win the next game."