Athletic Bilbao vs. Real Madrid: Preview and betting tips

The quarter-finals of the Spanish Cup will be played on Thursday evening. Real Madrid, the current favourites to win the Copa del Rey, will visit the hot ground of San Mamés. But it’s not going to be easy.

Athletic are looking to destroy another Spanish giant after knocking out Barcelona 3-2 in extra time after two goals from born-again star Iker Muniain.

The Basque club is hungry for success in this competition. All the more so since in the last two editions, played over a fortnight in May 2021 due to the pandemic situation, it has reached the final each time. But he had to swallow a bitter pill when he lost both finals he played.

This season, Marcelino’s team has been performing well, but in the last two months they have played Real Madrid a total of three times, resulting in three losses. This has left an obvious mark on the Basque club, and it is true that his performances have stalled somewhat.

However, they will certainly not be up against Real Madrid’s strongest eleven today. And this season suggests that if the royal club doesn’t field a full squad, they are in trouble. Especially in the attacking phase, Real are likely to be weakened.

Cannonballer Karim Benzema’s start is uncertain due to a muscle injury. The French sharpshooter has scored four of the White Ballet’s five goals in the last three meetings with Athletic. Left-back Ferland Mendy is also out due to injury.

Los Blancos also have a number of players just returning from international duty in South America. While Casemiro rested Tuesday night to Wednesday, another star of Real Madrid’s offense, Vinícius Juníor, played an hour of clean time.

Rodrygo and Valverde also started their respective national team matches, albeit from the bench. Either way, to be ready for such a match in less than 48 hours after travelling between continents will certainly be a tough test for them.

Highlights from the duels

• Of the last six matches between the two sides, Real Madrid have won five times, Athletic Club once
• This will be the sixth mutual duel since Marcelino took charge of the Basque club only last January
• Los Blancos have won their last four matches, including three in the last two months
• Bilbao’s last victory over Real Madrid came after a 2-1 win in the 2021 Super Cup

Athletic Bilbao vs. Real Madrid predictions

Athletic are primed to win this competition this year and if they can pull off a win against a weakened Real, they will have a great chance. Given that none of its players have been involved in international football for the last fortnight, its preparation for this match should be much better.

On the other hand, Real Madrid should not be underestimated. Especially the midfield line-up should be ideal, so it is quite possible that they will dominate the midfield. But Athletic can look fresher, especially if the game goes into extra time.

The duel will be played on Thursday at 21:30.