In an intriguing La Liga matchup, Athletic Bilbao is set to host Villarreal at the San Mames Barria on the 14th of April, 2024. This clash promises to be a critical one with both teams aiming for crucial points at different ends of the table.
Athletic Bilbao, fresh off their Copa del Rey victory, will be looking to secure a spot in the top four, while Villarreal's ambitions for European football next season look increasingly slim.
Current Form
Athletic Bilbao's Current Form
Athletic Bilbao is experiencing a solid season, sitting fifth in the league and just two points behind fourth-placed Atletico Madrid.
Their recent league outings have been a mixed bag with two wins, a draw, and a loss in their last four games.
Notably, they enjoyed a 2-0 victory over Alaves in their last home match, showcasing their strong home form.
Villarreal's Current Form
Villarreal, on the other hand, holds the 10th spot in the standings, and their recent form saw an end to a four-game winning streak with a 2-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid.
They have been performing better on the road, claiming three wins in their last four away games.
Team News
Athletic Bilbao's Team News
Athletic will be missing Inigo Ruiz de Galarreta due to a suspension, with Mikel Vesga expected to fill in.
Unai Simon will return as the goalkeeper, providing stability at the back. Nico Williams, despite recent injury concerns, is set to start, adding significant pace and skill on the wing.
Villarreal's Team News
Villarreal faces multiple injury woes. Key players like Francis Coquelin and Eric Bailly are sidelined.
Kiko Femenia will be back from suspension, bolstering their defence. Gerard Moreno, Goncalo Guedes, and Alexander Sorloth will lead the attack, hoping to exploit Athletic's defensive vulnerabilities.
Key Players
Athletic Bilbao's Key Players
Nico Williams, with his dynamic performances on the flank, and goalkeeper Unai Simon, whose saves are crucial for Athletic, will be key to their success.
Villarreal's Key Players
For Villarreal, Gerard Moreno's ability to find the back of the net will be vital, along with Alexander Sorloth, who brings physicality and finishing skills to the forefront.
Scoreline Prediction
Predicted Scoreline
Athletic's solid home record and Villarreal's erratic defence suggest a narrow home victory, crucial for Athletic's Champions League aspirations.
Athletic Bilbao 2-1 Villarreal
FAQs
What time does the match start? The match starts at 5.30 PM UK time on April 14, 2024.
Where is the match being played? At San Mames Barria, home of Athletic Bilbao.
Who are the key players to watch? For Athletic Bilbao, watch for Nico Williams and Unai Simon. For Villarreal, Gerard Moreno and Alexander Sorloth are the ones to watch.
What's at stake for both teams? Athletic Bilbao is fighting for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification. Villarreal is looking to improve their position but has slim chances for European qualification.
