Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Club friendly match.
Liverpool
Liverpool have been prolific in front of goal during their recent friendlies, netting eight times in three games. The attacking setup has looked fluid, with Florian Wirtz, Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Hugo Ekitike forming an effective partnership. Defensive concerns remain, however. Conceding four goals to AC Milan in a 2:4 defeat, and allowing a goal each in the 3:1 victories over Yokohama F. Marinos and Preston North End, reveals that the new defensive combinations are still finding cohesion.
Athletic Bilbao
Athletic Bilbao have endured a difficult pre-season, with three defeats from four matches. Losses to Deportivo Alavés (0:1) and Racing de Santander (1:2) underscored their struggles, with their only victory coming against Ponferradina (1:0). The team failed to find the net only against Deportivo Alavés; in the other meetings, they at least managed a goal. There’s still attacking quality within the squad — Oihan Sancet, who scored 15 La Liga goals last season, remains a key figure, supported by Iñaki Williams and Nico Williams, who together contributed to 24 goals (11+13).
Liverpool vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction
Liverpool enter this home fixture with their formidable attacking line firing, new signings bedding in smoothly, and visibly superior preseason preparation. Facing an Athletic Bilbao side in crisis, they are strong favorites for a convincing win—though Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities could allow the Basques to get on the scoresheet.
