Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Spanish Super Cup match.
Ahead of their trip to Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup, Athletic Bilbao have found excellent form – the Basque side have not lost since the beginning of October. Barcelona, plagued by disputes over the inclusion of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor in the squad for the second half of the season, must perform confidently in Saudi Arabia – the pressure on the club is increasing.
Athletic Bilbao
In their last 15 matches in all competitions, Athletic Bilbao have recorded 11 victories, although the start of 2025 has not been the best for the team. Away to Logrones (1:0 after penalty), the current holders of the Copa del Rey only got into the game after Iñaki Williams and Niko Williams came off the bench (0.97 xG and 18 shots in 90 minutes). It is likely that in Riyadh the players from Bilbao will only get chances up front, and will also allow dangerous situations at their own goal (Both Teams to Score has occurred four times since the beginning of December).
Barcelona
Barcelona lost their La Liga lead in December, suffering disappointing setbacks against Leganes (0:1) and Atlético Madrid (1:2). In their match against Barbastro (4:0), the Catalans used an experimental lineup, and Pablo Torre seized his chance, scoring 1+2. It's likely that in the Super Cup, Hansi Flick will play his strongest team; the trio of Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha Dias will be looking to breach the opponent's defence, but the defensive partnership of Ronald Araujo and Iñigo Martinez is not impenetrable.
Athletic Bilbao vs Barcelona Prediction
In the second round of La Liga, Barcelona defeated Athletic Bilbao at their home ground (2:1). The Basque side regularly eliminate the Catalans from cup competitions, so we are backing a bet on both teams to score.
