Athletic Bilbao seeks to extend their unbeaten streak to six matches as they host Rayo Vallecano at San Mames in La Liga on Saturday afternoon.
With Athletic positioned fifth in the league table, collecting 25 points from 14 games, Rayo stands 10th with 19 points from the same number of matches.
Match Preview
Athletic Bilbao entered their match against Girona following a three-game winning streak in all competitions, ultimately settling for a 1-1 draw.
Their unbeaten run of five includes four wins and a draw, with their sole defeat in the last 14 matches against Barcelona.
The Lions, with seven wins, four draws, and three losses, are comfortably placed in the league standings and eyeing a possible Europa League spot this season.
Athletic has been fairly strong at home, losing only once to Real Madrid on the opening day but securing four wins and two draws in their subsequent six home fixtures.
Rayo Vallecano, while difficult to beat, have encountered challenges with seven draws and three losses in 14 games.
Sitting 10th with 19 points, they’ve held Real Madrid and Barcelona to draws in three of their last four games, demonstrating resilience against top sides.
However, their winless streak in four home games and a recent defeat to Girona reflect their struggle for consistent results.
Yet, they remain unbeaten in their last four away games, including a goalless draw against Real Madrid.
Team News
Athletic Bilbao will miss Dani Garcia and Yeray Alvarez due to injuries. There are no expected changes from their last game against Girona, with Inaki Williams, Nico Williams, and Oihan Sancet supporting Gorka Guruzeta in the attack.
Rayo Vallecano, with a fully fit squad, anticipate Alvaro Garcia’s return from suspension. There are no surprises expected in their lineup, with Isi Palazon, Sergio Camello, and Oscar Trejo set to feature.
Possible Lineups
Athletic Bilbao:(4-3-3)
Simon;
De Marcos, Vivian, Paredes, Lekue;
Ruiz de Galarreta, Vesga;
I Williams, Sancet, N Williams;
Guruzeta
Rayo Vallecano:(4-4-2)
Dimitrievski;
Balliu, Mumin, Lejeune, Espino;
Palazon, U Lopez, Valentin, A Garcia;
Trejo, Camello
Prediction
Expect a closely contested match between Athletic Bilbao and Rayo Vallecano. Despite Rayo’s resilience, Athletic’s attacking quality might edge them ahead for a narrow win at home.
- Our Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 2-1 Rayo Vallecano
Athletic’s attacking prowess might prove decisive, granting them a crucial three points in a hard-fought encounter against Rayo Vallecano.
