Athletic Bilbao Analysis:
Athletic Bilbao is currently enjoying an excellent campaign in La Liga. With 11 wins, eight draws, and only three defeats in 22 matches, they are in fourth place with 41 points, keeping themselves in the race for a Champions League spot next season. Although they have recently shown signs of a dip in form, winning only two of their last five matches, their 13-game unbeaten run in La Liga, which dates back to October, clearly demonstrates the strength of this team.
Coach Ernesto Valverde has a solid squad with very good results at home. Athletic has picked up 22 points from 11 home matches this season, which gives them the third-best home record in the league. This is especially important because they are strong against teams with weaker records, although they have struggled in recent matches against some stronger opponents. Nonetheless, Athletic has a strong chance to stay in the top-four race, and this home game against Girona presents an opportunity to get back on track.
Nico Williams, Nico Serrano, and Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta are doubtful for this match and will need to be assessed before it is decided whether they will be involved. Valverde is likely to keep the same starting lineup that played against Real Betis, but there could be a change in attack, with Gorka Guruzeta potentially replacing Unai Gomez. Williams and Berenguer are expected to play on the wings, while Guruzeta will likely lead the line.
Girona Analysis:
Girona, on the other hand, is not in the best form, even though they ended a four-match losing streak with a 2-1 win over Las Palmas, which moved them to seventh place in the table, just one point behind sixth-placed Rayo Vallecano. After a historic 2023-24 season when they finished third, it’s clear that repeating that success this season is nearly impossible, given the competitiveness of the league.
Their biggest problem this season has been their lack of consistency, especially away from home. They have only earned 12 points from 11 away matches, which is a much weaker record compared to their home performances. Girona now faces a tough challenge away to Athletic, who has been very strong at home this season. Although they beat Athletic 3-2 at San Mames last season, repeating such a result this time around will be difficult.
Coach Michel is dealing with injuries and uncertainties in the lineup. Oriol Romeu and Daley Blind are still doubts for this match, while Abel Ruiz, who scored in the last match, is expected to start in attack. Donny van de Beek will play in the number 10 role, while Yaser Asprilla may have a chance to break into the starting lineup.
Betting Tips:
Athletic Bilbao is the favorite in this match, and rightfully so. They are in better form, have a stronger squad, and are especially dominant at home. Girona has struggled away this season and will have a difficult time matching the physical and technical superiority of Athletic.
Recommended bet:
- Winner: Athletic Bilbao – Athletic is in better form, has a stronger squad, and a better home record.
- Total goals: Over 2.5 goals – Both teams have had high-scoring games recently, and Athletic is offensively strong at home.
- Nico Williams to score – If Williams plays, his creativity and goal-scoring opportunities in attack could result in a goal.
Athletic is the team that should dominate this match from start to finish, and considering all the circumstances, they are likely to secure a win with multiple goals.
