Athletic Bilbao vs Real Sociedad: Predictions, Team News, Lineups Preview
The Basque derby will be a highlight on Wednesday night as Athletic Bilbao hosts Real Sociedad at San Mames. This match marks the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final, promising an intense clash between two fierce rivals.
Athletic Bilbao’s Recent Performance
Athletic Bilbao comes into this encounter with a boost of confidence, having recently defeated Levante 4-2 in La Liga. This victory was their second win in five attempts across all competitions, following a dramatic 2-1 win against Valencia in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals. In that match, an early own goal from Sadiq Umar set the tone, and a last-minute strike from Inaki Williams secured their place in the semi-finals.
Current Standing in La Liga
- Athletic Bilbao is placed 10th in La Liga.
- They have secured 28 points from 23 matches.
- This puts them only six points above the relegation zone.
The team’s defensive issues are concerning, as Athletic has not kept a clean sheet in their last 11 outings across competitions. However, their rich history in the Copa del Rey offers a chance for redemption. They are the second-most successful club in the tournament’s history, claiming the trophy 24 times, with their latest victory occurring last season.
Real Sociedad’s Form and History
Real Sociedad enters the semi-final with impressive momentum, having avoided defeat in their last 10 matches across all competitions. Under the guidance of coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, they are currently 8th in La Liga, having garnered 31 points from 23 games.
Statistics Overview
- Goals scored: 33
- Goals conceded: 31
They recently triumphed over Elche with a score of 3-1, marking four wins in their last five matches, the only blemish being a draw against Athletic Bilbao. In the Copa del Rey, they edged past Alaves 3-2 in the quarter-finals after defeating Osasuna on penalties in the round of 16.
Copa del Rey Aspirations
Real Sociedad aims to lift the Copa del Rey for the third time, previously winning the tournament in 1987 and 2020. They finished as runners-up four times, showcasing their consistent presence in Spanish football.
Head-to-Head Encounters
The last match between these two sides ended in a 1-1 draw. Athletic Bilbao has had the upper hand in past encounters, winning twice in their last five meetings, while Sociedad has secured one victory.
Team News
Athletic Bilbao Injuries
- Alex Berenguer: muscle injury
- Daniel Vivian: muscle injury
- Unai Eguiluz: out until mid-February with a cruciate ligament injury
- Yuri Berchiche: muscle issue
- Aitor Paredes: suspended
- Benat Prados: long-term injury
- Maroan Sannadi: recovering from meniscus injury
Real Sociedad Injuries
- Luka Sucic: muscle injury
- Unai Marrero: broken cheekbone (doubtful)
- Arsen Zakharyan: muscle problem
- Ander Barrenetxea: thigh injury
- Takefusa Kubo: hamstring injury
Predictions for the Match
Given the current form and the home advantage of Athletic Bilbao, it is predicted they may narrowly defeat Real Sociedad 2-1. The electric atmosphere at San Mames might provide the extra push needed for Athletic to gain an advantage heading into the second leg of this fierce rivalry.
