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Athletic Bilbao vs Real Madrid: La Liga 2024 Preview

A detailed preview of the La Liga clash between Athletic Bilbao and Real Madrid, featuring lineups, match analysis, and how to watch.

An intense soccer match scene at San Mames stadium, with players from Athletic Bilbao and Real Madrid engaged in a fierce competition. The atmosphere is electric, with a vibrant crowd in the background. Athletic players in their traditional red and white stripes are shown making a defensive play against Real Madrid's blue and white-clad individuals, featuring notable players like Mbappe and Bellingham. The image captures the urgency and dynamic movement of the game, with clear details, high contrast colors, and a sense of motion that highlights the passion of La Liga football.

Preview: Athletic Bilbao vs Real Madrid in La Liga 2024

On December 4, 2024, Athletic Bilbao will host Real Madrid at San Mames in what promises to be a thrilling encounter in La Liga. Both teams are vying for crucial points in their respective campaigns, with Athletic aiming for a return to Champions League football and Madrid looking to assert dominance at the top of the table.

Current Form and Standing

Athletic Bilbao currently sits in fourth place in the La Liga standings, striving to secure Champions League qualification for the first time since the 2013-14 season. With a record of seven wins, five draws, and three losses in 15 matches, they are experiencing a noteworthy campaign. The Leones have shown resilience, notably coming from behind to defeat Rayo Vallecano 2-1 in their latest outing, courtesy of Oihan Sancet's second-half brace.

Conversely, Real Madrid is in second place, just one point behind leaders Barcelona, and will be keen to maintain their pressure at the top. After an uncomfortable defeat against Liverpool in the Champions League, Madrid rebounded in domestic play, winning three consecutive matches without conceding a goal. Notably, they have accomplished a seventh league clean sheet this season, showcasing their defensive strengths.

Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid's Predicted XI:

  • Courtois (GK)
  • Vazquez, Asencio, Rudiger, Fran Garcia
  • Modric, Valverde, Bellingham, Guler
  • Rodrygo, Mbappe

Real Madrid will see the return of Aurelien Tchouameni to the squad, which adds depth to their midfield. Jude Bellingham is expected to start, maintaining his goal-scoring form. With a wealth of attacking talent, Madrid will look to exploit counter-attacks, especially through Mbappe and Rodrygo.

Athletic Bilbao's Predicted XI:

  • Agirrezabala (GK)
  • De Marcos, Yeray, Vivian, Yuri
  • Ruiz de Galarreta, Prados
  • I. Williams, Sancet, N. Williams
  • Guruzeta

Athletic will miss experienced midfielder Ander Herrera due to a hamstring injury, but Sancet is likely to feature after recovering from an ankle issue. Their game plan will revolve around high intensity and physical play, particularly given Madrid’s recent struggles to break teams down.

Match Preview

The San Mames factor plays a crucial role in Athletic's home performance. Despite being an intimidating venue for opponents, the last time Athletic triumphed over Madrid at home was in March 2015. Historically, Athletic has made it difficult for visiting teams, making this clash all the more significant for both clubs.

Real Madrid, nursing absences in their squad with key players like Vinicius Junior and David Alaba sidelined, will seek to navigate these challenges through tactical flexibility and solid rotation. Coach Carlo Ancelotti may opt to introduce Luka Modric to enhance midfield control, balancing experience with the power of youth provided by players like Guler.

Both teams are aware of what’s at stake. A victory for Athletic bolsters their Champions League credentials, while a win for Madrid consolidates their title defense ambitions. Given the intensity of their recent matches, a closely fought battle is expected.

How to Watch

  • Date: December 4, 2024
  • Time: 21:00 CET / 03:00 PM EST
  • Venue: San Mames, Bilbao, Spain
  • Available TV: Movistar La Liga, ABC
  • Streaming: ESPN+

Conclusion

As both clubs gear up for this essential fixture, the outcome could significantly impact their respective aspirations for the season. With plenty of talent on display, fans can expect excitement, drama, and a test of wills on the pitch.

Athletic Bilbao aims to capitalize on home advantage, while Real Madrid seeks to reaffirm their dominance in the league. Stay tuned for what ought to be a mesmerizing encounter between two historic rivals in La Liga.

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