Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde was thrilled for the club after reaching the Copa del Rey final.

Athletic thrashed Atletico Madrid 3-0 through goals Inaki and Nico Williams, plus Gorka Guruzeta.

Valverde said: "It hasn't been placid. They have started very well and until we have shaken off their dominance....The goal has calmed us down and in the second half we have entered very well and there we have dominated them. The important thing is to do everything possible to win and last year I think we did that too.

"At the moment we only think about where we are. The Copa is the opportunity we have to win a title and it is a very great dream for everyone. Last year we were here and we did not pass. Now we are delighted and we have one more step left.

"We know everything a final means to the fans. People get hooked on what we do, even though sometimes we risk a lot.

"Always the most important thing for me, besides the atmosphere, is what is inside the locker room, which is something that pushes us a lot. We are always the same, when things are good and bad. The atmosphere between the staff, the physios, those who accompany them every day and the players, it is the key."