Athletic Club continue their push for European qualification when they host struggling Valencia CF at San Mamés in a crucial La Liga encounter.

Athletic Club head into this clash full of confidence after an impressive 4-2 comeback victory over Deportivo Alavés last weekend. Ernesto Valverde’s side showed resilience and attacking quality by scoring three late goals to keep their European hopes firmly alive.

The Basque side have improved significantly in recent weeks after a difficult run across all competitions, and their strong home record at San Mamés remains a major advantage. Athletic will now aim to secure consecutive home clean sheets in La Liga for the first time this season.

Valencia, meanwhile, remain nervously looking over their shoulders in the relegation battle after a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Atlético Madrid. Carlos Corberán’s side have struggled badly away from home and have been particularly poor in trips to the Basque region.

Los Che have won just once in their last five away league matches and continue to struggle in front of goal, especially during the opening stages of matches.

Team News

Athletic Club have no major fresh injury concerns ahead of this important fixture. Gorka Guruzeta is expected to lead the attack after his excellent recent form in front of goal.

Valencia also appear close to full strength, with Umar Sadiq likely to continue spearheading the visitors’ attack following his recent scoring performances.

Head-to-Head Record

Athletic Club have lost just once in 14 meetings with Valencia at the new San Mamés Stadium. The Lions have also won three of the last four encounters between the sides in all competitions.

Key Players to Watch

Gorka Guruzeta – Athletic Club

Guruzeta has been one of Athletic’s standout performers this season, contributing 12 league goal involvements. He has directly contributed to five goals in the club’s last four matches.

Umar Sadiq – Valencia

Sadiq remains Valencia’s biggest attacking threat and already scored against Athletic Club earlier this season in the Copa del Rey.

Athletic Club vs Valencia Betting Tips

• Under 2.5 Goals
• Both Teams To Score – No
• Athletic Club to Win
• Correct Score: Athletic Club 1-0 Valencia

Athletic Club vs Valencia Prediction

Athletic Club’s strong home form and growing momentum in the race for Europe make them favourites heading into this clash. Valencia’s poor away performances and lack of attacking consistency suggest the visitors could struggle to create enough chances at San Mamés.

With Athletic tightening up defensively at home and Valencia regularly involved in low-scoring away games, a narrow home victory appears the most likely outcome.

Predicted Score

Athletic Club 1-0 Valencia