The 2024-25 La Liga season is in full swing, and one of the standout fixtures this weekend features Atletico Madrid taking on Athletic Bilbao at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano. Both teams have shown impressive form and will be aiming to secure a crucial victory in this highly anticipated encounter.
Atletico Madrid vs Athletic Bilbao: Head-to-Head Record
Atletico Madrid and Athletic Bilbao share a long history in Spanish football, with their encounters often delivering intense battles. Here are some key statistics from their past meetings:
- Overall Record: Atletico Madrid have won 29 out of the last 53 matches between the two sides, while Athletic Bilbao have claimed victory in 17 encounters.
- Recent Form in La Liga: Atletico Madrid have won four of their last five La Liga matches against Athletic Bilbao, showcasing their dominance in recent years.
- Athletic Bilbao’s Away Struggles: The Basque side is winless in their last 13 La Liga matches away from home against Atletico Madrid. Their last victory in Madrid came back in January 2011, when they secured a 2-0 win.
- Bilbao’s Unbeaten Streak: Despite their struggles away at Atletico, Athletic Bilbao have been in formidable form this season, remaining unbeaten in their last 16 La Liga matches.
- Recent Meetings: Athletic Bilbao have managed to avoid defeat in their last four La Liga clashes against Atletico Madrid, marking their longest unbeaten run against Los Colchoneros since 2018.
Atletico Madrid’s Current Form and Expected Lineup
Diego Simeone’s side has been fairly impressive this season and currently sits in third place in the La Liga standings. Their recent 4-4 draw against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey showcased their attacking prowess but also highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. Atletico Madrid will need to be at their best to overcome an in-form Athletic Bilbao side.
Possible Atletico Madrid Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Jan Oblak
- Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Jose Gimenez, Clement Lenglet, Javi Galan
- Midfielders: Giuliano Simeone, Rodrigo De Paul, Marcos Llorente, Samuel Lino
- Forwards: Antoine Griezmann, Samuel Alvarez
Athletic Bilbao’s Current Form and Expected Lineup
Athletic Bilbao have had a stellar season so far, currently sitting in fourth place in La Liga. They come into this match on the back of a stunning 7-1 victory over Real Valladolid, a result that will undoubtedly boost their confidence.
Possible Athletic Bilbao Starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Unai Simon
- Defenders: Oscar De Marcos, Dani Vivian, Aitor Paredes, Yuri Berchiche
- Midfielders: Unai Jauregizar, Mikel Vesga
- Forwards: Inaki Williams, Oihan Sancet, Nico Williams, Sannadi
