Athletic Club hosts Valencia in a La Liga clash at San Mamés, with both teams looking to improve on recent performances. Athletic Club is coming off a narrow defeat to Barcelona, while Valencia has struggled in recent outings, making this an intriguing encounter.
Key Stats & Insights
- Athletic Club’s Home Strength: Athletic have won 12 of their last 20 home games, showcasing their strong form at San Mamés.
- Valencia’s Struggles: Valencia has lost 7 of their last 10 league matches, including the last two. They have struggled both defensively and offensively, averaging just 0.9 goals per game in their last 10 outings.
- Head-to-Head: The last 10 meetings between these two teams have been closely contested, with Athletic winning three, Valencia two, and five matches ending in a draw. The last encounter ended in a 1-0 victory for Valencia.
Team Form and Performance
- Athletic Club: Athletic has been inconsistent, with 3 wins, 3 losses, and 4 draws in their last 10 matches. Despite this, they have maintained a solid home record, unbeaten in their last 19 home league matches. Key players include Oihan Sancet and Iñaki Williams, who have been among the top contributors this season.
- Valencia: Valencia has been in poor form, with only 1 win in their last 10 games. Their defensive frailties are evident, having conceded 11 goals in their last 6 matches. Their inability to secure wins away from home further adds to their woes, having failed to win in their last 4 away league games.
Head-to-Head Records
Athletic and Valencia have had a balanced head-to-head record in recent years. Athletic’s last home win against Valencia came more than a year ago, and their recent meetings have often been low-scoring affairs, with 11 of the last 12 matches decided by a single goal or ending in a draw.
Player Form and Availability
- Athletic Club: Oihan Sancet has been in good form, scoring in the last two games, and will be a key player. However, Nico Williams is doubtful due to injury, along with Aitor Paredes and Unai Simón.
- Valencia: Valencia is missing several key players, including José Gayà and Mouctar Diakhaby. Diego López, who scored in their last match, will be crucial for their attacking hopes.
Predicted Lineup
- Athletic Club (4-2-3-1): Agirrezabala; Gorosabel, Vivian, Yeray, Lekue; Prados, Herrera; Iñaki Williams, Sancet, Berenguer; Guruzeta.
- Valencia (4-2-3-1): Mamardashvili; Foulquier, Mosquera, Gasiorowski, Vazquez; Guerra, Pepelu; Diego López, Almeida, Rioja; Duro.
Market Analysis (Odds)
- Athletic Club to Win: Odds of 1.67 (implied probability of 62%) make Athletic the favorites. Given Valencia’s poor form, this seems a strong bet.
- Correct Score Prediction: A 2-0 win for Athletic Club is a solid prediction, with odds of +1400 offering value.
Final Score Prediction & Best Bets
- Final Score Prediction: Athletic Club 2-0 Valencia.
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Best Bets:
- Athletic Club to Win at 1.67.
- Under 2.5 Goals at 1.75.
- Correct Score of 2-0 at +1400