Real Madrid vs Athletic Club: Preview, predictions and lineups

Real Madrid’s final assault towards La Liga glory begins on Sunday night as they host Athletic Club in the Spanish capital.

A 4-2 win over Osasuna before the March international break saw Madrid extend their lead at the top of La Liga to eight points. Barcelona’s uptick in form since Xavi revealed he’ll be leaving at the end of the season means they’re once again Los Blancos’ closest challengers.

Sunday’s bout is undoubtedly one of the toughest left on Madrid’s schedule. They prevailed in the reverse fixture back in August and are the only team to win at San Mames this season.

Athletic Club have emerged as cup specialists in recent years but have enjoyed a stellar league campaign in 2023/24. Sitting fourth in the table, Athletic harbour hopes of securing their first Champions League berth since 2014.

Here’s 90min’s preview of Real Madrid’s upcoming La Liga clash.

Real Madrid vs Athletic Club H2H Record (Last Five Games)

Current Form (all competitions)

The hosts will be without superstar Vinicius Junior due to suspension on Sunday, so Joselu should partner Rodrygo up top. Vini Jr had scored five goals in his previous three games before the break.

Eduardo Camavinga is the only fresh injury concern after he picked up an ankle problem on international duty. His issue isn’t believed to be serious, however, and he should make Sunday’s squad.

Dani Ceballos will miss out with a knee injury, while David Alaba and Thibaut Courtois are long-term absentees. Eder Militao is closing in on a return.

Madrid predicted lineup vs Athletic (4-3-1-2): Lunin; Carvajal, Rudiger, Nacho, Mendy; Tchouameni, Kroos, Valverde; Bellingham; Rodrygo, Joselu.

The visitors are looking pretty healthy heading into Sunday’s game.

Former Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde could have a full complement of players to select from, although veteran midfielder Ander Herrera is a doubt. Aitor Paredes also faces a late fitness test.

The Williams brothers will both start at the Bernabeu.

Athletic predicted lineup vs Madrid (4-2-3-1): Simon; De Marcos, Vivian, Yeray, Lekue; De Galarreta, Prados; I. Williams, Sancet, N. Williams; Guruzeta.

Athletic have been supreme at home this season, and while their away record is far from poor, they’re taking on a Madrid side that are yet to lose at the Bernabeu.

The hosts are without Vini Jr this weekend, but Rodrygo typically steps up in his compatriot’s absence. Jude Bellingham is also back for Carlo Ancelotti’s side and the pair should make up for Vini’s suspension.

Athletic have the tools to give Madrid a scare or too, that’s for sure, and this should be a great game. Once again, though, Madrid’s individual majesty will get them over the line.

Prediction: Real Madrid 2-1 Athletic Club

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90 Mins