Real Madrid: Preview and Prediction for Athletic Bilbao match
By AJ Desai
On Sunday, Real Madrid will face Athletic Bilbao at San Mames.
Real Madrid came off of a rocky victory 1-0 vs Getafe on Thursday as Sergio Ramos netted a penalty in 80th minute. Of course, the main thing on the gaffer’s head is keeping the lineup fresh and less fatigue.
However, with a bunched schedule, it is extremely difficult. For example, Los Merengues has tons of talented players he can choose from such as Rodrygo, Isco, and Marco Asensio. Again, it depends on fatigue and who can provide more of service on the pitch this Thursday vs Athletic.
On Sunday at 14:00 CET, Real will face Athletic Bilbao at San Mames. Here is a preview of what’s to come.
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Form:
Real Madrid have won the last fives matches. However, Madridistas want 90 minutes of continuous football. Real Madrid does not need to do that. They just need that perfect chance on any one of their counterattacks to change the game.
In the 80th minute against Getafe, Dani Carvajal zoomed past Getafe’s Olivera, trapped him, and baited Olivera to tackle him inside that box. Madrid just needs chances in the attacking half to make things happen. They have speedsters who can make defenders feel uneasy.
Injuries
Real will not have Nacho or Raphael Varane in this match. Varane suffered a head injury vs. Getafe, and Nacho is nearing to be fit soon, but that is not confirmed yet.
Athletic is missing their veteran midfielder, Benat, other than that, Giazka Garitano will have a full squad to choose from for Thursday’s match. Los Blancos will need to focus on attacked the midfield with their shorts to create space for the wingers to get loose. Eden Hazard will also be out for Real as a precaution.
Durability
Real Madrid can and will keep faith in Eder Militao for the absent Raphael Varane. Marcelo will be called upon for his magic because Ferland Mendy played against Getafe. We will see a few different names in the starting lineup tomorrow. Keep your eyes on Rodrygo and Marco Asensio. I do not believe Asensio will start just because Zidane wants to slowly increase his playing time, but he will be a valuable substitute option.
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Prediction: Real Madrid 2, Athletic Bilbao 1