Real Madrid vs. Athletic Bilbao | La Liga | Pre Match
Real Madrid vs. Athletic Bilbao
Fresh from their disheartening elimination in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, Spanish giants Real Madrid will turn their focus back to domestic matters as they prepare to host Athletic Bilbao at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday night. The reigning La Liga champions, known as Los Blancos, suffered a chastening 2-1 defeat to Arsenal in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday, culminating in a 5-1 aggregate loss that abruptly ended their European campaign. This humbling exit has cast a shadow over the club, amplifying scrutiny on head coach Carlo Ancelotti and fueling speculation about his future. In stark contrast, Athletic Bilbao arrive in Madrid buoyed by their progression to the semi-finals of the Europa League, having secured a 2-0 home victory over Rangers in the second leg of their last-eight tie on Thursday, sealing a comfortable 2-0 aggregate triumph. The Lions, as Athletic are nicknamed, are riding a wave of momentum, and Sunday’s clash promises to be a compelling encounter between two teams at opposite ends of the emotional spectrum. For Real Madrid, this match represents a critical opportunity to regain momentum in their pursuit of La Liga leaders Barcelona, while Athletic will aim to capitalize on their recent successes and further solidify their impressive standing in the Spanish top flight.
The significance of this fixture for Real Madrid cannot be overstated, as the club seeks to recover from a demoralizing week both on and off the pitch. The 5-1 aggregate defeat to Arsenal exposed frailties in Los Blancos’ setup, with their usually potent attack struggling to break down a resolute Arsenal defense and their backline unable to cope with the Gunners’ incisive counter-attacks. The fallout from this loss has intensified speculation surrounding Ancelotti’s tenure, with reports suggesting that the Italian tactician may depart the club in the summer despite his storied history with Real Madrid, which includes multiple La Liga and Champions League titles. Ancelotti’s immediate focus, however, must be on galvanizing his squad for the challenges ahead, as Real Madrid remain in contention for a domestic double. In addition to their La Liga campaign, where they currently sit second, four points behind leaders Barcelona, Los Blancos are set to face their arch-rivals in the Copa del Rey final on April 26. This tantalizing prospect offers Ancelotti and his players a chance to salvage the season, but their recent form—winning just one of their last five matches across all competitions—raises concerns about their ability to compete on multiple fronts. Against an Athletic Bilbao side that has proven to be one of La Liga’s standout performers this season, Real Madrid will need to rediscover their clinical edge and defensive solidity to avoid further slippage in the title race.
Real Madrid’s position in the La Liga table adds further urgency to Sunday’s encounter. Their 1-0 victory over Alaves last weekend provided a much-needed boost, but with Barcelona potentially extending their lead to seven points by defeating Celta Vigo on Saturday, Los Blancos cannot afford to drop points at home. The Santiago Bernabeu, typically a fortress for Real Madrid, has not been as impregnable this season, and the team’s inconsistent form has left them vulnerable to upsets. Historically, Real Madrid have had the upper hand against Athletic, securing a 2-0 victory in the corresponding fixture during the 2023-24 campaign. However, the reverse fixture in December saw Athletic claim a 2-1 win at San Mames, a result that underscored the Basque side’s ability to challenge Spain’s elite. For Ancelotti, the task is to ensure his players channel their disappointment from the Champions League exit into a performance of defiance and quality. The absence of key personnel, most notably leading goalscorer Kylian Mbappe, who is suspended following a red card against Alaves, complicates matters. Mbappe’s absence deprives Real Madrid of their most potent attacking threat, and Ancelotti will need to rely on the versatility and creativity of players like Rodrygo, who is expected to spearhead the attack, and Brahim Diaz, who could feature on the right flank. The return of Eduardo Camavinga from suspension offers a boost in midfield, but injuries to Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal, coupled with doubts over Ferland Mendy and Andriy Lunin, limit Ancelotti’s options. Federico Valverde’s potential deployment at right-back to counter Athletic’s dynamic winger Nico Williams highlights the tactical adjustments Ancelotti may need to make, while Antonio Rudiger’s resilience in defense, despite recent muscular fatigue, will be crucial in thwarting Athletic’s attacking ambitions.
Athletic Bilbao, under the stewardship of Ernesto Valverde, approach this match in high spirits, having cemented their status as one of Europe’s most formidable sides this season. Their 2-0 victory over Rangers in the Europa League quarter-final second leg secured their place in the semi-finals, where they will face Manchester United in a highly anticipated two-legged tie. The first leg, scheduled for May 1 at San Mames, will see Athletic leverage their passionate home support, before traveling to Old Trafford for the return leg a week later. This European success has complemented an outstanding domestic campaign, with Athletic sitting fourth in the La Liga table, boasting 15 wins, 12 draws, and just four defeats from their 31 matches. Their tally of 57 points places them six points clear of fifth-placed Villarreal, who have a game in hand, and nine points ahead of sixth-placed Real Betis. With La Liga securing five Champions League spots for the 2025-26 season, Athletic are well-positioned to return to Europe’s premier competition, a remarkable achievement for a club that adheres to a unique policy of fielding only Basque players. Valverde’s side has been characterized by their resilience, tactical discipline, and attacking flair, with players like Nico Williams and Gorka Guruzeta posing constant threats. Their recent form—three consecutive wins across all competitions, including a 3-1 league triumph over Rayo Vallecano—suggests they will arrive at the Bernabeu with confidence and ambition, aiming to exploit Real Madrid’s vulnerabilities and secure a statement victory.
The team news for both sides adds further intrigue to this high-stakes encounter. Real Madrid’s attacking options are depleted without Mbappe, and Ancelotti will likely turn to Rodrygo to lead the line, supported by Brahim Diaz and Vinicius Junior, who will be tasked with stretching Athletic’s defense. In midfield, Camavinga’s return provides energy and dynamism, while Fran Garcia could be handed a start at left-back to offer width and defensive cover. Valverde’s potential role at right-back reflects Ancelotti’s recognition of Nico Williams as a key danger, with the young winger capable of turning games with his pace and directness. For Athletic, the fitness of Inaki Williams remains a concern, as the forward was an unused substitute against Rangers due to an adductor injury. Valverde is unlikely to risk his star player from the start, but a cameo off the bench could provide a late spark. Yuri Berchiche’s absence due to a muscular issue further stretches Athletic’s defensive resources, but the return of Unai Simon, Aitor Paredes, and Andoni Gorosabel to the starting lineup bolsters their backline. Benat Prados and Gorka Guruzeta are also expected to feature, adding balance and goal-scoring threat to a side that has consistently punched above its weight this season. Athletic’s ability to maintain their intensity and exploit transitions could prove decisive against a Real Madrid team still reeling from their European disappointment.
As Sunday night approaches, the Santiago Bernabeu will be the stage for a clash that carries immense implications for both teams. For Real Madrid, a victory is essential to keep pace with Barcelona in the title race and restore confidence within a squad battered by recent setbacks. Ancelotti, potentially in the final months of his tenure, will demand a response from his players, urging them to channel their frustration into a performance worthy of their storied legacy. For Athletic Bilbao, the opportunity to upset one of Spain’s giants on their home turf represents a chance to further cement their credentials as a rising force in European football. Valverde’s men will draw inspiration from their previous success at San Mames and their recent run of form, approaching the game with a blend of caution and ambition. With both sides navigating injury concerns and tactical challenges, the outcome may hinge on moments of individual brilliance or defensive resilience. The Bernabeu faithful, ever expectant, will hope to witness a display of dominance from Los Blancos, but Athletic’s tenacity and attacking verve ensure this will be no straightforward task. In a season defined by fine margins, this encounter could prove to be a defining moment for both clubs’ aspirations.
