Athletic Bilbao vs Real Madrid preview, prediction, team news and head-to-head

The host are fighting to find their way into the top four on the league table, while the visitors are desperate to arrest a worrying run of winless league results. 

Athletic Bilbao's recent form in La Liga has been inconsistent, with their last five matches having two wins, two losses and one draw.

Following a disappointing draw in the UEFA Champions League, they returned to winning ways following a 2-0 victory over UD Levante. 

Manager Ernesto Valverde will demand a disciplined performance, especially at home, where they secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Real Madrid last season. 

Real Madrid have endured a difficult run of form, having been held to three consecutive draws in their last three league matches. 

They have only claimed just one win in their last five games, with three draws and one loss across all competitions. Their previous league match was a 1-1 home draw against Girona FC, failing to take advantage of their UCL win. 

Manager Xabi Alonso’s side needs to secure a victory here to keep pace with league leaders Barcelona and regain their title momentum. 

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The record in this fixture has been dominated by Real Madrid, leading the overall head-to-head. Across the last five La Liga encounters, Real Madrid has won three times, with Athletic Bilbao claiming one win and one draw. 

The most recent league match at San Mamés saw Athletic Bilbao triumph 2-1 in December 2024, while their last encounter ended in a 1-0 win for Real Madrid.

Ahead of this clash, the team is dealing with several notable absences. Robert Navarro remains sidelined with a thigh injury, while Unai Eguiluz is out with a cruciate ligament injury. Also, Benat Prados will miss the remainder of the season due to the same issue.

Iñaki Williams is doubtful as he recovers from a muscle injury. Maroan Sannadi is also ruled out with a meniscus problem.

Real Madrid do not have a new injury in the team and only have old injuries. Daniel Carvajal is sidelined with a knee injury, while both David Alaba and Dean Huijsen remain out due to muscle problems. 

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Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1): Simón; Lekue, Vivian, Paredes, Berchiche; Jauregizar, Rego; Serrano, Berenguer, Williams; Guruzeta

Real Madrid (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Trent, Militão, Rüdiger, García; Tchouaméni, Valverde; Güler, Bellingham, Vinícius; Mbappé

Given Real Madrid's inconsistent league form, they face a tough test in Bilbao. However, their desperate need for a win should see them narrowly edge the match. 

We expect a tight game, with Real Madrid securing the victory and both teams finding the net in the game.