Overview
The 0-1 defeat to Real Madrid last weekend ended Athletic Bilbao's 8-match unbeaten streak in all competitions. However, this result does not affect the Basque team's position in the rankings too much. They are still 6 points ahead of Real Betis and their place in the Champions League next season is still very safe.
Bilbao need to improve their form when returning to their home stadium San Mames to welcome Las Palmas. At home, Bilbao have lost just one, winning nine and drawing six in La Liga this season. They have also only conceded 10 goals in 16 home matches.
As for Las Palmas, they are in good form, having won both of their most recent matches, including a surprise victory over Atletico Madrid last weekend. Before that, Las Palmas had gone through a 12-match winless streak, including 8 defeats. Las Palmas' away form is also very poor, having lost 9, drawn 3 and won 4.
Playing away against Bilbao in stable form is a difficult task for Las Palmas. Bilbao is the best defense in La Liga this season with only 26 goals conceded. Therefore, it is difficult for Las Palmas to create a surprise when having to travel to San Mames.
However, due to the absence of Nico Williams, Bilbao's attacking ability has been greatly affected. Therefore, even though they are rated higher, Bilbao will not easily win.
In the first leg in September last year, Bilbao won 3-2 against Las Palmas.
Personnel situation
Nico Williams could be given a break by Bilbao ahead of the first leg of the European Cup semi-final next week. Meanwhile, Sancet - the player who scored in the first leg - could return to the starting lineup.
On the other side of the front line, Las Palmas' number 1 goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen is still absent, so Dinko Horkas will continue to hold the position in the goal.
Expected lineup:
Athletic Bilbao: Simon, De Marcos, Vivian, Yeray, Lekue, Ruiz, Jauregizar, Djalo, Sancet, Gomez, I. Williams.
Las Palmas: Horkas, Viti, Suarez, McKenna, Marmol, Munoz, Essugo, Bajcetic, Moleiro, Mc burnie, Silva.
The match between Bilbao and Las Palmas takes place at 0:00 am on April 24 (Vietnam time).
