Overview
In the first leg, Athletic Bilbao had an extremely disappointing performance. They had an advantage over the opponent from the 13th minute, controlled the ball 72% and launched 19 shots. However, they could not defeat goalkeeper Liam Kelly once.
However, this is also a positive result as Bilbao have suffered defeat in both previous trips to Scotland.
With a 0-0 draw, Athletic Bilbao still have a big chance in the second leg. They have the home field advantage, where they witnessed the Basque team having an all-win record in this year's Europa League. If we include La Liga, Atheltic Bilbao have only suffered 1 defeat at San Mames this season.
This will be a big challenge for Rangers, especially when they suffered a 0-2 defeat in their last visit to San Mames in 1969.
In addition, Rangers will not have the service of center back Robin Propper after the red card he received in the first leg. Clearly, the Scotland team's defense will lack an important blocker.
Rangers will continue to choose a defensive counter-attacking style of play and wait for the opportunity when Bilbao raise their squad. However, San Mames has always been the home ground of the Basque team. Therefore, it is likely that home advantage will help Bilbao get a ticket to the Europa League semi-finals this year.
Personnel situation
Inaki Williams is in doubt for Athletic Bilbao after picking up an injury in the win over Rayo in La Liga. left-back Yuri Berchiche will also be absent again due to injury.
On the other side of the front line, Rangers are boosted by the return of defender John Souttar and midfielder Mohamed Diomande after a ban.
However, Propper is currently suspended after his red card in the first leg. Dujon Sterling will also be absent due to the injury he suffered in the draw with Ibrox.
Expected lineup:
Athletic Bilbao: Agirrezabala, Vivian, Alvarez, Lekue, De Marcos, Sancet, Berenguer, N. Williams, Ruiz de Galarreta, Jauregizar, Sannadi.
Rangers: Kelly, Tavernier, Souttar, Balogun, Yilmaz, Raskin, Diomande, Barron, Cerny, Hagi, Dessers.
The match between Athletic Bilbao and Rangers takes place at 2:00 am on April 18 (Vietnam time).
