MATCH OVERVIEW
Athletic Bilbao welcomes Rangers to San Mamés Stadium for a crucial UEFA Europa League fixture. With both teams vying for advancement in the competition, this match is pivotal in shaping their European journey. Athletic Bilbao, known for their strong home performances, will look to leverage their advantage against a Rangers side eager to make their mark.
ODDS ANALYSIS
The odds favor Athletic Bilbao with a home win probability of 72.46%, reflecting their strong form and home advantage. The draw stands at 20.20%, while Rangers have a 13.78% chance of securing an away victory. These odds suggest a likely win for Athletic Bilbao, but Rangers' resilience could lead to a competitive match.
TEAM ANALYSIS
Athletic Bilbao
- Current Form: Athletic Bilbao has shown consistency with an average of 1.73 goals per match and a solid defensive record, conceding only 0.91 goals per game.
- Strengths: High possession rate (54.73%) and effective passing (401 successful passes per match).
- Weaknesses: Vulnerable to dangerous own half losses (2.55 per match).
Rangers
- Current Form: Rangers have a slightly higher average of goals conceded (1.18) but match Bilbao's scoring rate at 1.73 goals per game.
- Strengths: Strong dueling ability with 102.82 successful duels per match.
- Weaknesses: Lower possession rate (42.91%) and higher dangerous own half losses (5.64 per match).
Head-to-Head
Historically, Athletic Bilbao has had the upper hand in previous encounters, but Rangers have shown they can compete against top teams.
KEY PLAYERS SPOTLIGHT
Athletic Bilbao
- Iñaki Williams: With 5 goals this season, Williams is a key offensive threat.
- Yuri Berchiche: Contributing both defensively and offensively, Berchiche is crucial in maintaining balance.
Rangers
- Vaclav Cerny: Leading scorer with 6 goals, Cerny is vital for Rangers' attacking play.
- Nicolas Raskin: Known for his midfield control and passing accuracy.
STATISTICAL DEEP DIVE
- Offensive Metrics: Athletic Bilbao averages 14.09 shots per match, while Rangers have a slightly lower average of 13.
- Defensive Metrics: Rangers make more clearances (7.45) compared to Bilbao's 3.73, indicating a more defensive approach.
- Possession and Passing: Bilbao's higher possession and successful passes suggest a more controlled game style.
PREDICTION AND CONCLUSION
Athletic Bilbao's home advantage and superior possession stats make them favorites to win. Key factors include their ability to maintain possession and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Rangers will need to focus on counter-attacks and defensive solidity to challenge Bilbao.
Final Score Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 2-1 Rangers Half Time Score Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 1-0 Rangers Both Teams to Score Probability: 54.55% Over 2.5 Goals Probability: 54.55%