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The iconic San Mames stadium hosts a compelling La Liga encounter as Champions League-chasing Athletic Bilbao welcome title-pursuing Real Madrid. Wednesday’s fixture pits Ernesto Valverde’s resurgent Basques against Carlo Ancelotti’s squad seeking to overtake Barcelona at the summit.

Athletic’s transformation under Valverde continues to gather momentum. Their dramatic 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano, secured through Oihan Sancet’s clinical brace, extended their unbeaten sequence to nine matches across all competitions. Their fourth position, level on points with Villarreal, reflects their legitimate European aspirations.

Form Analysis:

Athletic’s home form commands respect – six victories from eight competitive fixtures at San Mames demonstrates their fortress mentality. However, their record against Madrid in the Basque Country provides sobering context; their last league triumph over Los Blancos at home dates back to March 2015.

Madrid approach this fixture with domestic momentum despite European troubles. Three consecutive La Liga victories without concession, coupled with a 21-match unbeaten away sequence in the division, emphasizes their championship credentials.

Team Intelligence:

Valverde confronts selection challenges with Ander Herrera’s confirmed hamstring absence. Sancet’s anticipated recovery from ankle concerns provides attacking impetus, while Benat Prados returns from suspension. The goalkeeping dilemma between Julen Agirrezabala and returning Euro 2024 winner Unai Simon requires resolution.

Madrid’s substantial absentee list features Eduardo Camavinga, Vinicius Junior, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao and David Alaba. Aurelien Tchouameni nears availability, while Jude Bellingham’s neck complaint requires monitoring. Luka Modric and Arda Guler present fresh tactical options for Ancelotti.

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Statistical Evidence:

Athletic’s nine-match unbeaten run contrasts with Madrid’s impressive away statistics – no La Liga defeat on their travels since September 2023. The visitors’ five consecutive victories at San Mames, including last season’s 2-0 triumph, suggests psychological advantage.

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

Additional Betting Markets:

• Both Teams to Score: Yes (1.75)
• Over 2.5 Goals: Yes (1.90)
• Mbappe Anytime Scorer: 1.85
• HT/FT: Draw/Real Madrid (4.50)

Expected Line-ups:

Athletic Bilbao: Agirrezabala; De Marcos, Vivian, Alvarez, Berchiche; Ruiz de Galarreta, Prados; I. Williams, Sancet, N. Williams; Djalo

Real Madrid: Courtois; Vazquez, Asencio, Rudiger, Garcia; Modric, Valverde, Bellingham, Guler; Rodrygo, Mbappe

Wednesday’s encounter promises tactical sophistication as Athletic’s high-intensity pressing confronts Madrid’s transitional excellence. While the hosts’ recent form demands respect, Madrid’s championship experience could prove decisive at San Mames.

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