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Athletic Bilbao vs Real Madrid: Matchday 19 Potential Lineups and Starting XIs

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Real Madrid Seeks LaLiga Reclaim at San Mamés

Bilbao, Spain – Real Madrid travels to San Mamés on Wednesday to face Athletic Bilbao in a crucial LaLiga mid-week clash, aiming to rediscover its winning form adn regain the league lead. While currently atop the LaLiga standings, los Blancos have stumbled with four consecutive draws against opponents where three points were expected, and the visit to Bilbao presents a notable challenge to their leadership aspirations, recently seized by Barcelona.

The match, part of matchday 19, pits a Real Madrid side desperate for a victory against an Athletic Bilbao team looking to climb the table and secure a European qualification spot. Bilbao enters the contest buoyed by a solid 2-0 victory over Levante on matchday 14, a result that helped them recover from a heavy defeat against Barcelona.

Real Madrid’s recent form has been frustrating. In their previous outing on matchday 14, they drew 1-1 with Girona. A controversial VAR decision nullified a goal from Kylian Mbappé,and while the French star later salvaged a point with a penalty,the draw highlighted a concerning trend.

Both teams will be motivated to secure a positive result. Real Madrid needs a win to wrest back the league lead,while Athletic Bilbao aims to maintain momentum and strengthen their position in the upper half of the table. This promises to be a compelling encounter with significant implications for the LaLiga title race.

Match Details:

* Competition: LaLiga, Matchday 19
* Date: December 3rd, 2025

What are the key strengths of Athletic Bilbao’s predicted starting XI, particularly in midfield adn attack?

Athletic Bilbao vs Real Madrid: Matchday 19 Potential Lineups and Starting XIs

Athletic Bilbao Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

Analyzing Athletic Bilbao’s recent form and tactical preferences, here’s a likely lineup for Matchday 19:

* Goalkeeper: Unai Simón – A consistent performer and key to Bilbao’s defensive stability.

* Defenders:

* Yeray Álvarez – Solid center-back, crucial for aerial duels.

* Íñigo Martínez – Experienced defender, known for his passing range.

* Óscar de Marcos – Versatile player, likely to start at right-back.

* Mikel Balenziaga – Reliable left-back, offering defensive solidity.

* Midfielders:

* Mikel Vesga – Deep-lying playmaker, dictating tempo.

* Dani García – Energetic midfielder, providing defensive cover.

* Attackers:

* nico Williams – Explosive winger, a constant threat to opposing defenses. Key Player.

* Iñaki Williams – Versatile forward, capable of playing across the front line.

* Oihan Sancet – Creative attacking midfielder, linking play.

* Gorka Guruzeta – Leading the line, offering a physical presence.

Tactical Notes: Bilbao under Ernesto Valverde typically favors a high-pressing game,aiming to disrupt the opponent’s build-up play. Expect a dynamic midfield battle and rapid transitions. Their strength lies in their attacking width and the partnership between the Williams brothers.

Real madrid Predicted Starting XI (4-3-3)

Carlo Ancelotti is expected to field a strong Real Madrid side,prioritizing control and attacking firepower. Here’s the projected starting XI:

* Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois – World-class goalkeeper, essential for Madrid’s defensive organization.

* Defenders:

* Dani Carvajal – Experienced right-back, providing attacking width.

* Éder Militão – Powerful center-back, dominant in the air.

* David Alaba – Versatile defender, capable of playing multiple positions.

* Ferland Mendy – dynamic left-back,offering pace and defensive solidity.

* Midfielders:

* toni Kroos – Masterful passer, controlling the game’s tempo.

* Jude Bellingham – Box-to-box midfielder, contributing both defensively and offensively. Key Player.

* Eduardo Camavinga – Energetic midfielder, adding dynamism and tackling ability.

* Attackers:

* Vinícius Júnior – Electric winger, a constant threat with his dribbling.

* Rodrygo – Versatile forward, capable of playing across the front line.

* Harry Kane – Clinical finisher, leading the line.

Tactical Notes: Real Madrid will likely aim to dominate possession and control the midfield. Their attacking trio possesses incredible pace and skill, making them risky on the counter-attack. Ancelotti’s side will focus on exploiting spaces behind Bilbao’s defense.

Key battles to Watch

Several individual duels will be crucial in determining the outcome of this match:

  1. Nico Williams vs. Dani Carvajal: Williams’ pace and dribbling ability will test Carvajal’s defensive capabilities.
  2. Jude Bellingham vs. mikel Vesga: This midfield battle will be pivotal in controlling the tempo of the game. Bellingham’s energy and drive will be challenged by Vesga’s tactical awareness.
  3. Harry Kane vs.Íñigo Martínez & Yeray Álvarez: Kane’s clinical finishing will be put to the test against bilbao’s experienced center-back pairing.

Recent Form & Head-to-Head Record

* Athletic Bilbao: Bilbao has been in good form at home, winning their last three La Liga matches at San Mamés. They are known for their passionate home support

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