The result lifted Luis Castro's side away from the relegation zone, while Athletic were left to reflect on defensive errors and a costly dismissal.
Brugué struck twice in quick succession, scoring in the 20th and 22nd minutes as Levante punished Athletic Club's early mistakes. Alex Berenguer reduced the deficit from the penalty spot in the 67th minute, but Aymeric Laporte's dismissal six minutes later made the visitors' attempt to recover more difficult.
Etta Eyong, returning from injury as a second-half substitute, then finished from close range in the 98th minute to confirm Levante's win.
Castro was pleased with the result and the improvement he has seen in his team, insisting that their performances against strong opposition had already shown they could compete.
“We needed time, and now we are seeing players who were not at the required tactical level at the beginning. We are now closer to where we want to be,” the Levante coach said.
He added that tactical development required more than energy, with players needing to recognise when to press and when to play long. The coach believes the team's resilience has improved despite the limitations within the squad.
Eyong's return provided another encouraging development. Castro praised the striker's finish but stressed that Levante must manage his recovery carefully rather than risk another setback.
“He is a player who can give us a lot when he is happy. Now we have to take things step by step and make sure he does not suffer another setback,” Castro said.
The coach also highlighted Thiago Fernández's progress, particularly his attacking ability and work to improve defensively. Dani Requena's performances have similarly justified his place in the starting line-up, while Castro praised Brugué's energy and commitment after the captain delivered two decisive goals.
Athletic coach Edin Terzic acknowledged that his side had begun well but paid for two damaging errors.
“We had control at the start of the match, with two good opportunities, but two losses of possession created problems for us,” Terzic said.
He was encouraged by the fight shown after the setback and the dismissal, although he recognised that the two goals conceded had proved costly.
“We fought until the end, and we can build on those elements,” he said.
Levante now have a result to reinforce their belief, while Athletic must address their defensive mistakes before their next league fixture.