Valladolid vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction & Betting Tips - LaLiga

Prediction published on 15/03/2023, 15:18  by Kennedy Kechula | Modified on 16/03/2023 at 10:10 in LaLiga Predictions

Real Valladolid and Athletic Bilbao will kick off round 26 of the Spanish La Liga when they face off at the former’s Jose Zorrilla Stadium on Friday. Valladolid are seeking to put further daylight between them and the relegation zone and come into this match sitting in 14th place in the standings with 28 points while Bilbao are five places above them in ninth with 33 points. Real Valladolid have strengthened their chances of avoiding the drop in the last two months or so where they have won three of their eight total for the season thus far. They have avoided defeat in five of their seven matches in that time and will fancy their chances again here as they play at home, where they are unbeaten in their last three (two wins and a draw) and where six of their eight wins have come. Pacheta’s charges have greatly improved on their attack which has been the catalyst for their rise up the table. They have scored at least one goal in five of their last seven matches which is a significant improvement after starting the year with five straight losses and zero goals scored. Last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Elche came at a cost as Martin Hongla and Roque Mesa were both red-carded and will miss Bilbao’s trip.

Athletic Bilbao are on a downward spiral as they are without a win in their last five matches with four of those ending in defeat. Ernesto Valverde’s men have not scored a goal in their last three matches and could once again struggle to get their offence going against Valladolid. Their form away from home doesn’t inspire confidence either as they have managed just one win in their last 10 road games in the league. They will continue to be without Oihan Sancet, scorer of eight La Liga goals this season due to suspension.