Athletic Bilbao aims to enhance their Europa League prospects as they host Valencia this Sunday. Both teams enter the match with contrasting objectives; Athletic is vying for a European qualification spot, while Valencia seeks to avoid relegation from La Liga.
Athletic Bilbao’s Season Overview
Athletic Bilbao sits eighth in the La Liga table, currently matched on points with seventh-placed Getafe. They recently secured a 4-2 victory over Alaves, bringing their total to 44 points from 34 matches. This result keeps them in contention for European competition but poses a significant challenge, as they are nine points behind fifth-placed Real Betis.
- Current standing: 8th in La Liga
- Total points: 44 from 34 matches
- Recent match: 4-2 win against Alaves
Despite a season that has not met expectations, Athletic can still contend for the Europa League. They have collected 29 points from their 17 home matches this season, showcasing their strength at San Mamés.
Valencia’s Struggles
Valencia, coached by Carlos Corberan, stands in 12th place, just three points clear of the relegation zone. Their recent form has been shaky, highlighted by a 2-0 home loss to Atletico Madrid. Despite this, they remain only five points off a potential Conference League playoff spot, indicating the tight competition in La Liga.
- Current standing: 12th in La Liga
- Points: 39, three above Alaves in 18th
- Recent match: 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid
Valencia has not fared well against Athletic lately, suffering three losses in their last four encounters. The last away victory for Valencia against Athletic occurred in September 2019.
Team News Ahead of the Match
Athletic Bilbao may have a fully-fit squad, pending a late assessment of Benat Prados’s fitness. Robert Navarro is expected to earn a starting position after his standout performance against Alaves. Nico Williams, who scored twice in that match, looks to regain form as well.
On the other side, Valencia will be missing several players, including Mouctar Diakhaby and Dimitri Foulquier. Lucas Beltran’s participation is uncertain. Corberan is expected to make adjustments, possibly including Unai Nunez and Eray Comert in defense.
Possible Starting Lineups
Athletic Bilbao
- Simon
- Gorosabel, Alvarez, Laporte, Berchiche
- Ruiz de Galarreta, Rego
- Navarro, Sancet, N Williams
- Guruzeta
Valencia
- Dimitrievski
- U Nunez, Comert, Tarrega, Gaya
- Rioja, Guerra, Rodriguez, Lopez
- Ramazani, Sadiq
Final Thoughts on the Match
Anticipation builds as Athletic Bilbao prepares to take on Valencia. Given their current standings, Athletic must secure a win to maintain their push for a top-six finish. Predictions suggest a close match, with Athletic favored to edge out Valencia.
