La Liga Analysis and Preview: Athletic Bilbao vs Real Madrid
Real Madrid return to La Liga action on Easter Sunday with a challenging clash against high-flying Athletic Bilbao at the Santiago Bernabeu. Still reeling from a bruising Champions League defeat, the reigning Spanish champions now turn their full focus toward domestic competition. They are hoping to finish the campaign with silverware as a parting gift for Carlo Ancelotti, who is widely expected to leave at the end of the season.
Los Blancos Seek Redemption at the Bernabeu: Reeling, but Refocused
It was a night to forget on Wednesday, as Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal ruthlessly extinguished Real Madrid’s European dreams. Despite a bright start and a morale-boosting penalty save from Thibaut Courtois, Los Blancos were ultimately dethroned in humbling fashion. They crashed out of the Champions League quarter-finals with a 5-1 aggregate defeat.
With their much-hyped ‘Remontada’ quickly neutralized and their European hopes dashed, pressure continues to mount on Ancelotti, who may be entering his final weeks in the Spanish capital. Now, with the La Liga title slipping away to eternal rivals Barcelona, Madrid must rally ahead of next weekend’s Copa del Rey final, also against the Catalans.
Sunday’s clash with the Basques is not just about points: it’s about pride and momentum. Carlo Ancelotti’s side currently trail Barcelona by seven points in La Liga. This follows Barca’s thrilling comeback 4-3 win over Celta Vigo on Saturday. Moreover, Real Madrid have won just one of their last five games across all competitions. However, a return to the Bernabéu, where they’ve been far more comfortable, offers the chance to steady the ship. They can make a statement against one of the most well-drilled clubs in the league.
Suspension keeps Kylian Mbappé out of the squad, but Rodrygo is likely to lead the line, flanked by Vinícius Júnior and Brahim Díaz. With long-term injuries to Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal, tactical reshuffles are expected. Federico Valverde may again drop into right-back, and Camavinga returns from a European suspension to bolster midfield control.
Meanwhile, experienced centre-back Antonio Rudiger, battling muscle fatigue, remains a key figure in central defense.
Lions Roaring into the Capital
While Real Madrid mourn their European exit, Athletic Bilbao come into this clash brimming with belief and momentum. Ernesto Valverde’s men secured a spot in the Europa League semi-finals with a comfortable 2-0 second-leg win over Scottish giants Rangers on Thursday. They achieved a 2-0 aggregate as well, booking a mouthwatering tie with Manchester United in early May.
All in all, The Lions are enjoying their best domestic campaign in years. Sitting fourth in the La Liga standings with 57 points from 31 matches, Ernesto Valverde’s men are six points clear of Villarreal in fifth. They look well on course to secure Champions League football for the first time since the 2014-15 season.
After a tough start to the 2024-25 season, losing three of their opening nine top-flight matches, Athletic Bilbao have lost just one of their last 22 La Liga games. This includes a narrow 1-0 defeat at the hands of Atletico Madrid on March 1st. Indeed, Athletic Bilbao show consistent performance.
Having beaten both Rayo Vallecano 3-1 last weekend and Rangers just days ago at their San Mames, Athletic Bilbao now eye a third straight win in all competitions. They head into a daunting, yet exciting Easter Sunday game at the Bernabeu. Historically underdogs in this matchup, the Basque club are no longer a team to overlook. They’ve lost just three of their 15 away league games this season (6-6-3 record). They also boast the best defensive records in Spain, conceding just 25 goals so far.
In terms of squad news, Inaki Williams is unlikely to start due to a lingering adductor injury. However, he could make a late impact off the bench. Yuri Berchiche is also a major doubt, while Unai Simon, Andoni Gorosabel, Aitor Paredes, and Benat Prados are all expected to return to the starting XI after Thursday’s rotation.
Up front, Oihan Sancet and Nico Williams, the former of whom boasts 15 La Liga goals this term, will be vital in orchestrating attacking transitions. Gorka Guruzeta is tipped to lead the line in the match against Real Madrid. Athletic Bilbao are prepared for the challenge.
Possible Starting Lineups of Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao
Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois – Federico Valverde, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Fran García – Eduardo Camavinga, Luka Modric, Aurélien Tchouaméni – Jude Bellingham – Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior. (4-3-1-2)
Athletic Bilbao: Unai Simon – Andoni Gorosabel, Dani Vivian, Aitor Paredes, Inigo Lekue – Unai Gómez, Benat Prados – Alex Berenguer, Oihan Sancet, Nico Williams – Gorka Guruzeta. (4-2-3-1)
Spooky Express Betting Prediction
This Easter clash between Real Madrid and Athletic Bilbao could go either way. According to the latest betting odds from EveryGame, Real Madrid are -167 favorites to get back to winning ways. Athletic Bilbao present tempting value at +450. The draw is priced at +300, and considering both teams’ recent form, that’s far from out of the question.
Our top betting recommendation for this match is Both Teams to Score: Yes, priced at -125. With Real Madrid needing a statement response and the Basques always dangerous in transition, expect goals at both ends. We’re placing 7/10 units on this market.
Spooky Express Free Play: Both teams to score – Yes -125 at EveryGame for 7/10 Units
