Athletic Bilbao defeated Udinese 1-0 at the Dacia Arena on Saturday night.

The victory means Los Leones have won all their games during the World Cup break and given minutes to all their players while avoiding injuries.

Iñaki Williams scored in the only goal of the match in the 85th minute, the Ghana international making a lung-bursting 50-metre run to get on the end of a pass from Raúl García before slotting past Marco Silvestri. All is now set for Tuesday's Copa battle against Sestao River at Las Llanas.

On a freezing cold night in the northern Italian city, Valverde gave minutes to his the three World Cup players. Nico Williams looked especially sharp in the first half, troubling Silvestri on a couple of occasions.

Udinese were more dangerous in the second half. Turkish midfielder Tolgay Arslan caused the Athletic defence a few problems. He forced a great save from Unai Simón, who replaced Julen Agirrezabala at half-time.

Dani Vivian was at his imperious best in defence, constantly snuffing out danger at the back, exemplifed by his block on a Beto shot.

Nineteen-year-old midfielder Beñat Gerenabarrena made his first senior, coming on as a sub in the 80th minute

Asier Villalibre went close with a header but it was Iñaki Williams who scored the decisive goal with five minutes to go. Athletic Club will now return to Bilbao with their heads held high after a job well done.