Overview
Real Madrid are struggling in the 2024-2025 Champions League. A 0-2 defeat to Liverpool has pushed Los Blancos down to 24th place with just 6 points after 5 matches.
However, in the La Liga arena, the army of coach Carlo Ancelotti is still maintaining a stable form.
Therefore, "Los Blancos" are completely capable of surpassing Barcelona on the rankings. First, they need to win on Athletic Bilbao's field.
However, Athletic Bilbao's form will be something Real Madrid need to be wary of. The Basque side are on a nine-match unbeaten run in all competitions, including three recent wins over Real Sociedad, Elfsborg and Rayo Vallecano.
Real Madrid have lost just one of their last nine games in all competitions against Athletic Bilbao. In the six previous meetings, Los Blancos have won five and drawn one. In the away game last season, Real Madrid won 2-0.
Real Madrid striker Rodrygo scored three goals in two appearances against Athletic Bilbao last season. The Brazil international has not featured much recently, but returned to the starting line-up at the weekend in Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Getafe. With Vinicius out, Rodrygo could be trusted to start for Ancelotti.
Meanwhile, Bilbao's top scorer this season is Oihan Sancet, with seven goals in 12 La Liga appearances. The home side will need an impressive performance from the striker to cause problems for Real Madrid's defence.
Human resources situation
Real Madrid have a number of long-term absentees including David Alaba, Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal, while Eduardo Camavinga and Vinicius are temporary absentees.
On the other side of the front line, Athletic Bilbao welcomed Benat Prados back after suspension and goalkeeper Unai Simon also returned after injury.
Expected lineup:
Athletic Bilbao: Agirrezabala, De Marcos, Vivian, Alvarez, Berchiche, Ruiz de Galarreta, Prados, I. Williams, Sancet, N. Williams, Djalo.
Real Madrid: Courtois, Vazquez, Asencio, Rudiger, Garcia, Modric, Valverde, Bellingham, Guler, Rodrygo, Mbappe.
The match between Athletic Bilbao and Real Madrid takes place at 3:00 a.m. on December 5 (Vietnam time).
