Athletic Bilbao Defends Copa del Rey Title Against Osasuna in High-Stakes Clash

BILBAO, Spain — Athletic Bilbao will defend their Copa del Rey title as they host Osasuna in a high-stakes Round of 16 clash at San Mames Stadium on Thursday, January 16, 2025. The match, set to kick off at 6:30 p.m. UK time, pits the reigning champions against a determined Osasuna side seeking their first major trophy.

Los Leones, as Athletic Bilbao is known, secured their 24th Copa del Rey title last season after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Mallorca in Seville. This year, they narrowly advanced to the Round of 16 after a tense penalty shootout against fourth-tier Logrones, following a goalless draw in regulation and extra time. Despite a recent 2-0 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals, Athletic remains unbeaten in their last 10 home matches across all competitions.

Osasuna, meanwhile, is chasing their first Copa del Rey trophy after falling short in two previous finals. Los Rojillos, as they are known, edged past Tenerife in the previous round with a 2-1 victory but suffered a 1-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in La Liga last weekend. Their last win at San Mames dates back to February 2020, adding pressure to their quest for an upset.

“San Mames is a fortress, and we know it will be a tough challenge,” said Osasuna manager Jagoba Arrasate. “But we are determined to make history.”

Athletic Bilbao will be without key forward Inaki Williams, who is sidelined with an ankle injury, while midfielder Ander Herrera recently departed for Boca Juniors. Manager Ernesto Valverde is expected to make tactical adjustments, with Alex Berenguer and Nico Williams likely to feature in the starting lineup.

Osasuna, on the other hand, could see the return of Bayern Munich loanee Juan Bernat, who has been recovering from a six-game injury absence. Midfielder Jon Moncayola is also pushing to return after missing the Atletico Madrid match due to injury.

With both teams vying for a spot in the quarterfinals, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Athletic Bilbao will rely on their formidable home record, while Osasuna aims to defy the odds and keep their Copa del Rey dreams alive.