The Copa Del Rey is back with an exciting second-leg clash between Athletic Bilbao and Atletico Madrid in the semifinal second leg of the competition. The first leg saw Bilbao narrowly take the lead with a one-nil victory. This time, Bilbao is looking to keep their position and go through to the final, while Atletico is looking to fight back from the deficit.
Athletic Bilbao
Athletic Bilbao has been in decent form against Atletico Madrid, winning three of their last five meetings and only losing two. In their last five fixtures in all competitions, Bilbao was undefeated before taking a loss in their most recent match, the 3-1 loss they suffered at the hands of Real Betis. However, Bilbao is always fun to watch.
Athletic Bilbao Team News
Despite being in scintillating form, especially in the Copa Del Rey, Athletic Bilbao has several players in doubt for this highly anticipated fixture. Players like Yuri Berchiche, Yeray Alvarez, and Andre Herrera are in doubt after suffering injuries. First-choice goalkeeper Unai Simon will also likely not feature in favor of Julen Agirrezabala, who has been the go-to for Bilbao throughout this season in this competition.
On the positive side, despite being sent off in their most recent outing, highly talented youngster Nico Williams will be eligible to feature in this match, as his suspension only affects league appearances.
Probable Lineup
Athletic Bilbao will likely line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Julen Agirrezabala in goal, Vivian and Parades as the center-back pairing, and DeMarcos and Garcia completing the back four. Prados and de Albeniz will likely be utilized as the double pivot in midfield, with Sancet operating just in front of them and behind the striker in the number 10 role. The team will have Nico Williams and Guruzeta as the wide midfielders, with Inaki Williams as the leading man up top.
Atletico Madrid
Atletico Madrid hasn’t been in the best form in all competitions, managing only one win from their last five games. The Copa Del Rey is different, as their only loss in the last four games of the competition came in their last outing against Bilbao at home in the first leg of this fixture. They will be looking to correct their recent form by turning this match around and making it to the final of the Copa Del Rey.
Atletico Madrid Team News
Madrid are missing some big names, with Cesar Azpiliqueta, Thomas Lemme, and Jose Gimenez all unavailable due to injuries, and top scorer Antoine Griezmann in doubt due to the recent injury he suffered in Atletico’s Champions League clash against Inter Milan. However, Diego Simeone’s squad is still very formidable, with players like Morata and Marcos Llorente fully fit.
Probable Lineup
Atletico will likely line up in a 3-5-2 formation featuring Jan Oblak in goal, a back three of Llorente, Savic, and Witsel, and a midfield of Lino, De Paul, Koke, Barrios, and Hermoso, with Morata and Correa leading the lines as the front two.
Conclusion
These teams are incredible and similarly placed at the top end of the La Liga table. However, cup competitions always have a certain air about them that the league can’t replicate. With only one goal separating these top teams, fans can expect a spectacular showing of passion, desire, and excitement.