Preview: Athletic Bilbao vs Girona – prediction, team news, lineups

Athletic Bilbao will face Girona in a much-anticipated La Liga clash at San Mames on Tuesday. Both teams have experienced difficult starts to the season, although their current trajectories could not be more different. As Bilbao looks to break a three-game losing streak, Girona aims to secure their first league win of the season after a series of disappointing performances.

Recent Form and Background

Athletic Bilbao initiated their season on a high note with three consecutive victories against Sevilla, Rayo Vallecano, and Real Betis. However, following an injury to star winger Nico Williams, their form has dramatically slipped. The team has since succumbed to three consecutive defeats, including a disappointing 2-0 loss against Valencia in their latest outing, where they struggled offensively and saw Dani Vivian receive a red card. Such a downturn contrasts sharply with their strong finish last season, where they ended fourth in La Liga.

Girona, on the other hand, has been in a dire situation since the season’s start. The Catalan club has suffered four defeats in five matches, with their only points coming from a last-minute draw against Celta Vigo. The team’s early performances were marked by heavy losses, culminating in a 4-0 defeat to newly-promoted Levante. Head coach Michel is under significant pressure as the team currently sits at the bottom of the table alongside three other teams yet to win a match this season.

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

Historically, Athletic Bilbao has had the upper hand against Girona, especially at home. In their previous five meetings at San Mames, Bilbao has won four times, including a commanding 3-0 victory in their last encounter there. The hosts have been prolific in front of goal during these fixtures, netting at least two goals in four of those five games. This historical dominance adds another layer of pressure on Girona, who desperately need to turn their fortunes around.

Team News and Key Players

Athletic Bilbao’s squad will miss the injured duo of Benat Prados and Unai Egiluz, along with Alex Padilla due to a suspension. Yeray Alvarez is sidelined after receiving a 10-month doping ban, while Nico Williams’ injury leaves a significant gap in their attacking options. The return of Aymeric Laporte, who is poised to make his first start since rejoining the club, could provide a much-needed stabilizing presence in defense.

For Girona, injuries and suspensions exacerbate their troubles. Key players such as Juan Carlos, David Lopez, Ricard Artero, and Thomas Lemar will not be available, and Viktor Tsygankov remains doubtful due to a thigh injury. Additionally, Axel Witsel and Vitor Reis will miss the match due to suspensions following their red cards against Levante.

Possible Starting Lineups

Athletic Bilbao:

• Goalkeeper: Simon
• Defenders: Gorosabel, Paredes, Laporte, Berchiche
• Midfielders: Vesga, Jauregizar
• Forwards: I. Williams (likely replaced if not fit), Gomez, Berenguer, Guruzeta

Girona:

• Goalkeeper: Gazzaniga
• Defenders: Martinez, Frances, Blind, Moreno
• Midfielders: Martin, Solis, Ounahi
• Forwards: Asprilla, Gil, Vanat

Match Prediction

Given Athletic Bilbao’s need to end their goal drought and Girona’s struggles at the back, this match presents an opportunity for Los Leones to regain form. With the weight of history and home advantage on their side, they are favored to clinch a relatively comfortable victory.

In conclusion, as both teams approach this crucial fixture in La Liga, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Athletic Bilbao seeks to reaffirm their competitive edge, while Girona must fight to stave off a deeper crisis. Expect a blend of tension and urgency on the pitch as both sides strive for vital points in this compelling matchup.

Conclusion

In summary, with Athletic Bilbao looking to end their losing streak and Girona desperate for their first victory, the upcoming match promises to be a critical turning point for both teams. History favors the home side, but in football, surprises are always possible. Fans will be eagerly watching to see which team can emerge victorious from this clash at San Mames.

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