Match Predicyion Athletic Bilbao Vs AZ Alkmaar
On October 3, 2024, Athletic Bilbao will face AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League at San Mamés Barria, a matchup that promises to be an exciting clash between two competitive sides.
📊 Team Performance
Athletic Bilbao has secured 3 wins in their last 6 matches across all competitions. They enter this match after a 1-1 draw against Sevilla in La Liga, where they managed 40% possession and 13 shots on goal, with 5 on target. Mikel Jauregizar opened the scoring, but an own goal from Álex Padilla cost them the full three points. Despite showing attacking potential, Athletic Bilbao has struggled defensively, conceding in 5 of their last 6 outings and allowing a total of 6 goals.
AZ Alkmaar, meanwhile, has won 1 out of their single Europa League outing this season and has clinched victory in 3 out of their last 4 away matches. Their last game resulted in a disappointing 2-1 loss to FC Utrecht, despite dominating possession with 68% and generating 22 shots on goal. Troy Parrott managed to score for AZ, but defensive lapses allowed FC Utrecht to secure the win. AZ has been impressive offensively, averaging 3 goals per match over their last 6 games, totaling 18 goals.
📰 Team News
Athletic Bilbao will be without key players including Oihan Sancet (hamstring), Beñat Prados (muscle), Ander Herrera (adductor), and Unai Simón (wrist), which could impact their tactical setup. Manager Ernesto Valverde is likely to opt for a 4-2-3-1 formation, featuring Julen Agirrezabala in goal, supported by a defensive line of Óscar de Marcos, Aitor Paredes, Unai Núñez, and Iñigo Lekue. The midfield will be anchored by Mikel Vesga and Mikel Jauregizar, with Iñaki Williams leading the attack.
AZ Alkmaar also faces injury concerns, missing Lewis Schouten, Ibrahim Sadiq, and Sem Westerveld. Manager Maarten Martens is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 formation, likely starting R. J. Owusu-Oduro in goal, with a backline comprising Seiya Maikuma, Bruno Martins Indi, Alexandre Penetra, and David Møller Wolfe. Jordy Clasie and Peer Koopmeiners will provide midfield support, while Troy Parrott looks to lead their attacking charge.
🔮 Football Prediction
Athletic Bilbao, playing at home, is expected to create numerous goal-scoring opportunities against an AZ side that may struggle defensively. However, AZ has shown they can find the net, making it likely that both teams will score. We predict a competitive encounter, with Athletic Bilbao emerging victorious with a scoreline of 2-1.
💵 Betting Odds
Current odds for the match are as follows:
💡 Betting Tips
- Correct Score: 2-1 in favor of Athletic Bilbao
- Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over
- Both Teams to Score: Yes
As the teams gear up for this exciting Europa League clash, fans can expect a thrilling display of football, with both sides eager to secure crucial points in the group stage.
