Athletic Bilbao Seek Redemption at Home After Trio of Stalemates
So here we are again, another crucial La Liga weekend, and all eyes are on Athletic Bilbao as they host Rayo Vallecano at San Mamés. You could say the pressure is quietly building. After three consecutive goalless draws — including a tense European clash in Scotland against Rangers — Ernesto Valverde’s squad finds itself in a delicate position. They're still holding that all-important fourth spot in La Liga, but the gap is shrinking. Villarreal, sitting just six points behind with a game in hand, are lurking.
Now, Athletic haven’t exactly been in freefall — let's not go that far — but one win in their last five league games doesn’t scream consistency either. And for a team eyeing Champions League qualification, these dropped points are starting to matter more than ever. The last couple of matches against Osasuna and Villarreal ended in 0-0 draws. While defensively solid, offensively there’s been a serious lack of bite.
Also Read:- Postecoglou on the Brink After Spurs' Shocking Collapse at Wolves
- Kohli, Salt Shine Bright as RCB Crush RR in Dominant IPL 2025 Victory
On the other side of the pitch, Rayo Vallecano aren’t in the best form themselves. They were battered 4-0 by Espanyol last week, and their form across the last seven league games reads like a stuttering engine — just one win to show for it. They’ve slipped down to ninth, and that dream of European competition is slipping from their grasp. Still, for a team that finished 17th last season, ninth place is no small achievement. But let's be honest — no one wants to end the season on a sour note.
And history? Well, it’s not on Rayo’s side either. They’ve lost their last three La Liga clashes with Athletic, including a 2-1 defeat earlier this season and a thumping 4-0 loss the last time they visited Bilbao. That San Mamés crowd will be buzzing, knowing just how strong their side is at home — 30 points from 15 home matches isn’t something to ignore.
In terms of team news, Athletic may be missing Yuri Berchiche due to a muscle issue, but otherwise they’re looking pretty strong. Gorka Guruzeta should return to the starting lineup, and keep an eye on Nico Williams — possibly playing out his final season with the club, and still a major threat on the left flank. Meanwhile, Rayo will be without Jonathan Montiel, Sergio Camello, and Abdul Mumin, which forces some tactical rethinking for coach Iñigo Pérez. Expect Isi Palazon to return to the front line, with Randy Nteka likely leading the line once again.
So what are we expecting from this match? Honestly, a tight one. Both teams are desperate for different reasons — Athletic to keep their Champions League dream alive, and Rayo to halt their worrying slide. But home advantage could make all the difference. I’m leaning towards a 2-1 win for Athletic Bilbao. Not flashy, not dominant — but effective. And right now, that’s exactly what they need.
Read More:
0 Comments