Two sides that are in the hunt for a Europa League spot will meet this coming week, with the hosts in desperate need of a return to winning ways to give themselves the best possible chance. But, will they be able to get the three points against Athletic Bilbao?
La Liga Preview
Valencia have endured a difficult beginning to the restart, as they have won just once in their previous five. That run of form leaves them one point behind Real Sociedad, who are also in terrible form at present. However, with Bilbao and Granada hot on the heels of Valencia, they will know that they can’t continue to drop points against teams around them. Valencia were guilty of doing that in their last league game against Villarreal, as they were beaten 2-0. The victory for Villarreal lifted them up to fifth and within three points of Sevilla. Paco Alcacer and Gerard Moreno scored the goals in the victory for Villarreal.
Athletic Bilbao have been in progressive form since the restart, as they have lost just once in their previous five. That defeat came against Barcelona last week, but they would have considered themselves unlucky not to have come away with at least a point from that clash. They have drawn twice and won two games from the previous five, and a win against Valencia could see them end the week in the Europa League places depending on other results. They have the third best defensive record in La Liga this season, with their main troubles being hitting the ball in the back of the net. Bilbao have scored just 36 goals this season, which is the fewest of any side in the top half of the table. However, since the restart, they have scored seven goals, which means their attacking problems could be a sign of the past.
Valencia vs Athletic Bilbao Head To Head
Valencia have a great record against Bilbao in La Liga, as they haven’t lost against the Basque club since 2016. Over the past six meetings, Valencia have won four of the meetings and have drawn twice. Bilbao have scored just three goals in the previous six meetings.
Valencia vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction
While the previous meetings may indicate that Valencia holds the advantage over their opponents, it’s difficult to ignore the recent form of both sides. Bilbao have been strong since the restart and the preference would be for the travelling side to get the three points.
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