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Beşiktaş vs Athletic Bilbao: Prediction, Betting Tips & Match Preview | Jan 22, 2025

The UEFA Europa League group phase continues as Beşiktaş host Athletic Bilbao at the Tüpraş Stadyumu on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 15:30 GMT. Athletic Bilbao are aiming to secure a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the last 16, while Beşiktaş are fighting to keep their slim hopes of progression alive.

Interesting Fact: This will be Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s first match in charge of Beşiktaş, marking his return to football management since being sacked by Manchester United in November 2021.

Team Analysis

Beşiktaş

Beşiktaş have been inconsistent in the Europa League this season, collecting 6 points from six matches. Their 2-1 loss to Bodø/Glimt in their last match highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities, and they now face an uphill battle to avoid elimination. Domestically, they are also performing well, sitting sixth in the Turkish Super Lig.

Current Form:

  • Last 5 matches: 2 wins, 3 draws.
  • Last match: 0-0 draw with Samsunspor in the Turkish Super Lig.

Key Players:

  • Gedson Fernandes: The midfielder has been a standout performer, scoring two goals in the Europa League.
  • Ciro Immobile: The Italian striker has been clinical in front of goal, leading the line with confidence.

Injuries/Suspensions:

  • Gabriel Paulista (out, injury).
  • Tayyip Talha Sanuc (out, injury).
  • Necip Uysal (out, injury).
  • Bakhtiyor Zaynutdinov (doubtful, injury).

Home Form:
Beşiktaş have been inconsistent at home, with one win and two losses in their three Europa League matches at Tüpraş Stadyumu this season.

Athletic Bilbao

Athletic Bilbao have been in excellent form in the Europa League, collecting 16 points from six matches. Their 2-0 victory over Fenerbahçe in their last match showcased their attacking prowess, and they remain in contention for automatic qualification. Domestically, they are also performing well, sitting fourth in La Liga.

Current Form:

  • Last 5 matches: 3 wins, 2 draws.
  • Last match: 2-1 win over Celta Vigo in La Liga.

Key Players:

  • Iñaki Williams: The forward has been in fine form, scoring four goals in the Europa League.
  • Alex Berenguer: The midfielder provides creativity and energy in the middle of the park.

Injuries/Suspensions:

  • Oihan Sancet (out, ankle injury).

Away Form:
Athletic Bilbao have been strong on the road, with two wins and one draw in their three Europa League away matches this season.

Head-to-Head and Past Encounters

The last meeting between these two sides was in November 2004, when Beşiktaş secured a 3-1 victory in the UEFA Cup. This will be their first competitive encounter since then, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the fixture.

Prediction

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Beşiktaş 1-2 Athletic Bilbao

Athletic Bilbao’s superior quality and strong defensive record make them favorites for this clash. However, Beşiktaş’s home advantage and attacking firepower could see them cause problems for the Basque side. Expect a closely contested match, but Athletic’s experience and tactical discipline should see them edge it.

Betting Tips

  1. Both Teams to Score: Yes
    • Both teams have shown attacking prowess in recent matches.
  2. Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over
    • This fixture has a history of producing goals.
  3. Anytime Goalscorer: Iñaki Williams
    • The in-form forward is likely to find the net.

Hot Stat: Athletic Bilbao have conceded just two goals in their six Europa League matches this season, highlighting their defensive strength.

Possible Lineups

Beşiktaş (4-2-3-1):
Günok; Svensson, Topçu, Uduokhai, Masuaku; Al Musrati, Fernandes; Silva, Mário, Rashica; Immobile.

Athletic Bilbao (4-3-3):
Simón; De Marcos, Vivian, Paredes, Berchiche; Jauregizar, Ruiz de Galarreta, Berenguer; I. Williams, Guruzeta, N. Williams.

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