Real Madrid Faces Athletic Bilbao in Crucial La Liga Clash

Madrid, Spain — Defending champions Real Madrid are set to host Athletic Bilbao in a crucial La Liga match on April 20, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET. With Barcelona pulling ahead in the league standings, Madrid aims to secure three vital points to keep their title defense alive.

After a recent 1-0 victory against Deportivo Alaves, Real Madrid is looking to build momentum against a competitive Athletic Bilbao side that boasts a strong record this season. In their latest outing on April 13, Bilbao claimed a 3-1 win at home against their rivals.

“Every match from now until the end of the season is critical,” said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. “We need to find our rhythm and get back to our winning ways.” Madrid’s loss to Arsenal in the Champions League has intensified the pressure on the Spanish giants, who are currently trailing Barcelona by seven points in the league.

Sports analytics show a significant edge for Real Madrid as predictions project a 59.4% chance of victory against Athletic Bilbao, who have an 18.4% chance of winning. A draw stands at a 22.2% probability, according to simulations conducted by sports data firm Dimers.

Ryan Leaver, a Dimers analyst, explained, “Using the most recent data, we’ve run over 10,000 simulations for this match. Real Madrid is favored, but Bilbao can’t be underestimated.”

Both teams have key players missing—Kylian Mbappé is serving a suspension for Real Madrid, while Athletic Bilbao might miss striker Iñaki Williams due to an injury. Madrid has seen some injury setbacks as well with Eder Militão and Dani Carvajal sidelined.

“This match will be about which team can capitalize on their opportunities,” said Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde. “We’re ready to test ourselves against one of the best.”

Fans are bracing for an intense atmosphere at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, as supporters hope for a turnaround in form from their team. “Every match is important as we aim to reclaim our title,” one fan noted. “We believe in our squad to deliver.”

As the season approaches its climax, every point becomes crucial, and this match could prove decisive in the race for the La Liga trophy.