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Athletic Bilbao will host Real Betis at San Mames on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at 8:00 PM UK time in an intriguing La Liga clash. Both teams are tied on 18 points from their first 11 matches of the 2024-25 season, with Athletic currently fifth in the table and Betis sixth. This showdown promises to be a close contest as both sides look to strengthen their positions in the league standings.

Match Significance

Athletic Bilbao come into the match with a strong run of form, having gone unbeaten in their last three matches, including a 0-0 draw with Mallorca. Their only home defeat this season was against Atletico Madrid in August, but since then, they have won three straight home games, including a 4-1 victory over Espanyol. The Lions are also balancing their Europa League campaign, where they have earned seven points from three matches.

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Real Betis, meanwhile, have been busy across multiple competitions, including the Conference League and Copa del Rey, where they recently thrashed Gevora 6-1 to advance. Their last league outing saw them secure a vital 1-0 victory over Atletico Madrid, courtesy of an early own goal by Jose Gimenez. Betis have matched Athletic’s record this season with five wins, three draws, and three losses, boasting a slightly stronger defence but scoring fewer goals.

Team Analysis

Athletic Bilbao

Ernesto Valverde’s side will be without first-choice goalkeeper Unai Simon due to injury, but they otherwise have a healthy squad. Dani Vivian is pushing for a recall in defence, which may prompt a change from the side that started against Mallorca. The attacking trio of Iñaki Williams, Oihan Sancet, and Nico Williams, alongside Gorka Guruzeta, will be key in breaking down Betis’ defence.

Key Players: Iñaki Williams brings pace and power to the frontline, while Nico Williams’ dribbling and creativity can unlock defences. Sancet’s playmaking ability adds depth to their attacking threats.

Real Betis

Manuel Pellegrini’s squad faces injury challenges, with Aitor Ruibal, Hector Bellerin, Giovani Lo Celso, Marc Roca, William Carvalho, and Isco all sidelined. However, their core lineup is expected to remain unchanged from the side that triumphed over Atletico. Vitor Roque, who will be partnered by Ezequiel Avila up front, is likely to lead Betis’ attack, aiming to replicate his form from their cup win.

Key Players: Vitor Roque’s sharpness in front of goal will be pivotal, while Ezequiel Avila’s work rate and aggression provide a dynamic edge. Pablo Fornals’ midfield influence will be essential in dictating play.

Predicted Lineups: Athletic Bilbao (4-2-3-1): Agirrezabala; Gorosabel, Yeray, Vivian, Yuri; Ruiz de Galarreta, Jauregizar; I Williams, Sancet, N Williams; Guruzeta

Real Betis (4-4-2): Silva; Ruibal, Bartra, Llorente, Perraud; Fornals, Cardoso, Altimira, Ezzalzouli; Avila, Roque

Head-to-Head and Form

Athletic Bilbao won the corresponding fixture 4-2 last season, while Real Betis emerged 3-1 victors in their most recent meeting in February 2024. Athletic have lost just once in all competitions since August, while Betis enter the match on a seven-game unbeaten run in La Liga. The balance between these two teams suggests an exciting encounter with minimal margins for error.

Betting Tips and Predictions

Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 2-1 Real Betis Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Athletic Bilbao 2-1 Real Betis.

Justification: Athletic’s home advantage and recent form give them a slight edge, while Betis’ injuries and congested schedule could impact their performance.

Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes. Both sides have shown they can find the back of the net.

Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5. With both teams capable of scoring, a match with multiple goals is anticipated.

First Goal Scorer: Iñaki Williams. His pace and clinical finishing make him a strong candidate to break the deadlock.

Hot Stat: Athletic Bilbao have won their last three home games, scoring an average of three goals per match.

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