Real Madrid: 3 keys to victory against Athletic Club on LaLiga’s Matchday 37

Defend well aerially

Athletic Club is distinguished for the physical aspect of their play. As such, winning the aerial duels would be a big factor in this game. The side that excels here will move on to create more chances off the ball-retrievals.

The two goals that Athletic Club scored in that eye-catching 2-1 home victory against Atletico Madrid were both from headers. While one was a better-crafted move that had the Los Rojiblancos’ defense wide open, the other was a towering header off a set-piece. They are thus dangerous in the air.

With the aerial danger looming clouds, the onus would be upon the center-backs, Nacho Fernandez and Eder Militao. Nacho hasn’t hit his best in the recent outings, he has played non-stop for the club stepping up for the absentees. It is only normal for him to be fatigued towards the end of a tumultuous season.

‘Air Militao’ will hence have to pilot the responsibility alongside the wide defenders Odri and Gutierrez who needs to take on the likes of Asier Villalibre, Inaki Williams, or Alex Berenguer and stop the incoming crosses. For the ones that do come in, Real will need to be at their best to tackle the physicality Athletic brings on the pitch.

Real Madrid haven’t kept a clean sheet in their last three outings in all competitions. They failed to keep one at Los Carmenes too. But, the attacking intent shown to restore the lead almost immediately has heightened our hopes for good displays in the two remaining games. The ultimate key is to stick to a similar game plan and see off a comfortable win to stay alive in the title race.