Athletic Bilbao – Atletico Madrid

Atletico are ready for an important match in Bilbao

On Saturday 30 April, Atletico will take on Athletic at home in the 34th match of La Liga. From a league perspective, the meeting is more important for the visitors. Atletico have not yet secured a place in the Champions League, although they have some margin over Betis. The Basques retain their chances of qualifying for next year's Conference League, but seventh place is four points away. Atletico have had two tough games against Espanyol and Granada since their Champions League exit. As the season drew to a close, Atletico had improved their defensive play. Once again, the majority of the team's games are played to a total of less than 2.5. At the same time they still have problems in attack. In the next season, the club expects a radical change in the attacking line. Athletic also traditionally play defensively. The Basques are displaying a certain statistical paradox this season. By all indications, the team should be fighting for a place in the Champions League, but in the end they do not even get into the European competition. The game with Cadiz saw a breakthrough, with three goals scored. Such a game is a rarity for Atletico. The Basques are also among the leaders in terms of draws. The team draws every third match. The bookmakers are offering odds of 2.60 to win against Atletico in Bilbao. However it can hardly be called objective. The visitors are much higher in class, the pause of two weeks has probably helped Diego Simeone to set up his team for a decisive run. Such odds can partly be explained by injuries. Feliches and Lemar will definitely not play. Key defender Savic is suspended. The losses are unpleasant, but Madrid have enough players in reserve to replace them. The motivation of the favourites must also play a part. It is very important for Atletico to qualify for the Champions League. There is also a certain resentment against the Basques in recent matches. Atletico have failed to win three consecutive head-to-head games. A revanchist attitude could also help. Athletic have not been consistent in March and April. For example, there were unexpected defeats to Valencia and Celta. It is logical to assume that the favourites will certainly not be without points. The visitors should get at least a draw.