The 1997/1998 away season for Athletic Bilbao was marked by both challenges and notable performances. Here's an overview:
1. La Liga Away Performances: Athletic Bilbao's away performances in La Liga during the 1997/1998 season were a mix of highs and lows. The team, managed by Dragoslav Stepanović, faced challenges on the road but also showcased their resilience in several fixtures. They secured important victories away from home against tough opponents, demonstrating their competitiveness in Spain's top flight. However, inconsistency in away form affected their overall league position, and they finished the season in mid-table.
2. Copa del Rey and Other Competitions: In the Copa del Rey and other domestic competitions, Athletic Bilbao's away performances were limited during the 1997/1998 season. While they participated in the Copa del Rey, their journey in the tournament may not have been notable in terms of away fixtures, as they were unable to advance to the later stages of the competition.
3. Individual Performances: Despite the team's mixed results away from home, several players delivered standout performances during the 1997/1998 season. Key players such as Julen Guerrero, Ismael Urzaiz, and José Luis Mendilibar played pivotal roles in the team's away matches, contributing with their skill, experience, and leadership on the pitch.
4. Managerial Influence: The influence of manager Dragoslav Stepanović was crucial in guiding Athletic Bilbao through the challenges of the 1997/1998 away season. His tactical acumen and ability to motivate the players were instrumental in extracting the best out of the team, particularly in away fixtures. Stepanović's leadership provided stability and direction, helping Athletic Bilbao navigate through the competitive environment of La Liga.
5. Challenges and Opportunities: The 1997/1998 away season presented Athletic Bilbao with both challenges and opportunities. While they faced difficulties in maintaining consistency away from home, they also had moments of success and resilience. The season served as a learning experience for the team, highlighting areas for improvement and reinforcing their determination to compete at a high level in Spanish football.
Overall, the 1997/1998 away season for Athletic Bilbao was characterized by a mix of performances, with moments of promise tempered by challenges. While they may not have achieved significant success in away fixtures, the team's performances laid the foundation for future growth and development, reflecting their commitment to competitiveness and excellence in La Liga and other competitions.