Match Overview
Athletic Bilbao welcomes Mallorca to San Mamés in a crucial La Liga fixture. With the season entering a pivotal phase, both teams are keen to capitalize on this opportunity to climb the league table. Athletic Bilbao, known for their strong home performances, will look to leverage their home advantage against a Mallorca side that has shown resilience on the road.
Odds Analysis
The average odds for this match suggest a strong favoritism towards Athletic Bilbao, with odds of 1.48 for a home win, translating to a 67.6% probability. The draw is priced at 4.12, indicating a 24.3% chance, while an away win for Mallorca is considered less likely at 6.87, with a 14.6% probability. Based on these odds, Athletic Bilbao is expected to dominate, but Mallorca's potential to surprise should not be underestimated.
Team Analysis
Athletic Bilbao
- Current Form: Athletic Bilbao has been consistent this season, with an average of 1.69 goals per match and a solid defensive record, conceding only 0.88 goals per game.
- Strengths: Strong attacking play with 12.77 shots per game and a high success rate in dribbles (20.46 per match).
- Weaknesses: Possession is slightly below average at 49.08%, which could be exploited by a possession-oriented team.
Mallorca
- Current Form: Mallorca has struggled offensively, averaging just 0.96 goals per match, but their defense has been relatively solid, conceding 1.24 goals per game.
- Strengths: Effective in interceptions (41.36 per match) and successful in long passes (29.96 per match).
- Weaknesses: Lower attacking output with only 8.8 shots per game and a reliance on counter-attacks.
Head-to-Head
Athletic Bilbao has historically had the upper hand in this fixture, often utilizing their home advantage to secure victories. However, Mallorca's recent form suggests they could pose a challenge.
Tactical Approaches
Athletic Bilbao is likely to adopt an aggressive attacking strategy, focusing on high pressing and quick transitions. Mallorca, on the other hand, may opt for a more defensive setup, looking to exploit counter-attacking opportunities.
Key Players Spotlight
Athletic Bilbao
- Oihan Sancet: Top scorer with 13 goals, crucial in breaking down defenses.
- Iñaki Williams: A dynamic forward with 5 goals, known for his pace and dribbling.
Mallorca
- Vedat Muriqi: Leading scorer with 6 goals, pivotal in aerial duels and set-pieces.
- Antonio Raíllo: Key defensive figure, instrumental in maintaining defensive solidity.
Statistical Deep Dive
- Offensive Metrics: Athletic Bilbao averages 1.69 goals per game, significantly higher than Mallorca's 0.96.
- Defensive Metrics: Both teams have similar defensive records, with Athletic Bilbao conceding 0.88 goals per game compared to Mallorca's 1.24.
- Possession and Passing: Athletic Bilbao's passing accuracy and possession are slightly superior, which could be decisive in controlling the game's tempo.
Prediction and Conclusion
Athletic Bilbao is favored to win this encounter, given their superior attacking prowess and home advantage. Key factors include their ability to convert chances and maintain defensive discipline. Mallorca's best chance lies in capitalizing on set-pieces and counter-attacks.
Final Score Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 2-0 Mallorca Half Time Score Prediction: Athletic Bilbao 1-0 Mallorca Both Teams to Score Probability: 48% Over 2.5 Goals Probability: 46%