This is the Athletic Club’s first time in the Europa League since the 2017/18 season. The club hasn’t lost in Europe yet, as they drew against AS Roma (1-1) while defeating AZ Alkmaar (2-0).
They achieved these positive results despite Nico Williams’ injury, which has severely weakened Ernesto Valverde’s team going forward. The team has managed to adapt to some extent, with Alex Berenguer filling in as a left-winger.
One of the solutions has been to rely on the defensive partnership of Vivían and Paredes. Although this could work as a short-term fix, the team’s finishing remains inconsistent, with missed opportunities in key moments.
Athletic frequently create key chances but struggle to find the final touch to beat the goalkeeper. If Athletic Club want to remain in the top eight, they need to improve that aspect urgently.
Slavia Praha successfully returned to the Europa League last season by finishing first in their group. This season, they have continued to perform strongly, defeating Ludogorets (2-0) and securing a draw against Ajax (1-1).
So far, the Red and Whites remain undefeated in the 2024/25 season across all competitions. They have won ten games and drawn one in the Czech League, scoring twenty-four goals while conceding only three in eleven games.
What sets Slavia apart is their consistent approach across both European and domestic competitions. They favour an intense style with pressing, as seen against in their encounter with Ajax. Looking to pressure the Dutch side, they pushed Ajax back for most of the match.
This relentless approach has been successful both in the Czech League and in Europe, where Slavia have shown a willingness to take risks by pressing high until the end of matches.
Bet hereWhile Slavia Praha brings more recent European experience to the table, a visit to San Mames presents a unique challenge. Athletic Club’s Basque fans create one of the most electrifying atmospheres in European football, which often makes the difference between a draw and a victory for the home side.
Furthermore, Slavia Praha haven’t faced a team with such a strong defensive focus, which suggests they will struggle to break through Athletic’s defence.
However, Nico Williams’s absence makes things a little harder for Athletic as Ernesto Valverde looks to maintain attacking potency without his favorite player.
This is the first time the two teams meet, which should result in an exciting encounter. Slavia favours an all-in approach, while Athletic Club will be looking to do the opposite, focusing on building play from the backline.
The Vivian-Paredes pairing is one of the best centre-back duos in Spain due to their mix of technique and athleticism. Defences often come out victorious in such scenarios, as they take fewer risks than their more offensive counterparts.
This means that a narrow victory for the hosts, combined with a clean sheet, seems like the most likely outcome for this clash.
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