It has been too long since the competition in La Liga was this close. Finally, a title race which has captured the imaginations of La Liga fans around the globe. The traditional three big clubs in Spain have all performed incredibly well this season and are still in with a shout at winning the entire thing.
This clash between Real Madrid and Athletic Club is massive; with three crucial points at stake for both the title race and Champions League qualification.
Matches of this calibre always attract plenty of interest among football fans and bettors alike. Given their star-studded squad and the match being played at the Santiago Bernabeu, Los Blancos are the clear favourites.
There’s a plethora of exciting markets on the biggest football betting sites that could prove to be very lucrative. But first, check our Real Madrid vs Athletic Club preview where we dissect their past battles, form, key players and expected outcome.
It won’t surprise too many to know that Real Madrid has historically dominated this fixture, but within the context of this season – this won’t be easy for the hosts. The head-to-head between these two sides going into the game shows 98 wins going the way of the hosts, 51 for the visitors and 37 ending all square.
The most recent win for Athletic Club came at the San Mames in December last year, seeing a 2-1 win for the visitors. Carlo Ancelotti will no doubt be mindful of that result ahead of this encounter.
A lot has been said about this Real Madrid side – and rightly so,. They have flashed moments of brilliance throughout this season and continue to compete on multiple fronts, but have failed to show their form consistently. The only concern we could raise is their struggle to overcome their arch-rivals, Barcelona.
One of the big surprises this season has been the emergence of Raul Asencio and his rise to prominence in this team. A defender who at times has been simply superb for his side and seen them weather somewhat turbulent storms. Keep an eye on his season.
Resilience and internal confidence have been two words largely associated with this Athletic Club side. They came through a tough UEFA Europa League Round of 16 tie, all the while competing on a domestic front and pushing for Champions League qualification through La Liga.
They will be hopeful achieving a league double over Los Blancos this season – who dares to count them out?
There will be no change in approach from Real Madrid. They will attack their opponents with their usual pace, skill and ruthless aggression. Madrid are able to suffocate opponents with such ease, crafting wave after wave of attack and not allowing the other side a minute to ease into the game. So, don’t be surprised to see them look to bully Athletic Club here.
Their defensive strategy will be vital here. Without question, it is the aspect which will keep them in the game and give them a platform to launch an attack of their own against their hosts. Expect Athletic Club to absorb all the pressure here before looking to counter at pace and with intensity. Whether they find any purchase, however, remains to be seen.
For Real Madrid, they have players all over the pitch that can hurt Athletic Club. Kylian Mbappe will likely lead the team’s offensive approach and given that the French talent hasn’t stopped finding the back of the net – he will likely be crucial here again. Jude Bellingham is another player who can win you a game. His talent will be once again on display here.
Oihan Sancet has enjoyed a magical season for his side but emerging as a key player in La Liga he continues to demonstrate his ability – it is no surprise then that so many clubs are beginning to find an interest in his services. Nico Williams is another name who has been instrumental out wide for Athletic Club. Wearing the iconic number 10 jersey, playing at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu stadium – he will no doubt want to leave his mark.
Our expert prediction for this La Liga encounter leads us to a tight game, but Real Madrid have to remain favourites for the win in the decisive phase of the season. They look more incisive than they did in the first meeting between the two, and will be aware they cannot drop points. For extra value, you might be inclined to have Real Madrid winning with Both Teams to Score, but backing the straight win should provide enough value.